Let’s Live Forever

Earlier this year, on MeetUp.com, I discovered “Skeptics in the Pub” (not my spelling) and have since attended a couple of the events.  Informal and informative, they are even better than Radio 4.

Last night’s was “Defeating Aging and Other Dramatic Goals”, the speaker was Dr. Aubrey de Grey, of the SENS Foundation.  Although I was not familiar with Dr de Grey, how could I resist?

First, Aubrey drew attention to how we currently perceive and treat aging.  Considered inevitable, we treat symptoms, not causes (isn’t that always the way?). 

He then presented a metaphor to introduce his own thoughts.  A Land Rover performs fully for 50 years because it was built to do so.  A VW Beetle, not built to do so, can perform equally well for 50 years - through maintenance.

He explained that we are not yet equal to maintaining our build; the human metabolism.  Science is nowhere near unravelling our mysteries; the audience chuckled their agreement.  Aubrey and the SENS Foundation therefore adopt a different approach; rejuvenation.

Aubrey asserts that we are within striking distance of being able to maintain our full health through maintenance, in the form of rejuvenation not prevention.  He described a cycle of continuous improvement and scientific development that will enable humans to reverse damage (pathology) that occurs over time.  In effect, turning back our clocks.  Organs that fail would be replaced, cells that die will be removed, new cells will flourish.  We would all enjoy peak adult health for far longer.  Science would continue to anticipate challenges, and we would continue to be maintained. Indefinitely.

In spite of the provocative name of the presentation, and slogan on his sweatshirt (Conquer Aging), Aubrey did point out that this longevity was a side effect of successfully treating disease.

Aubrey’s ideas did not seem particularly radical to me.  I have recently heard radio programmes on which scientists say 130 is already a feasible age for many of us. 

I was surprised at Aubrey’s expectation that society was not comfortable or supportive of the prospect of continuous good health; “Don’t you believe society is already aiming for this?  My grandmother’s confusion was considered a natural part of old age and a precursor of death, whereas I will be diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and benefit from treatment.”  He agreed with this, adding that the treatments were not, however, rejuvenation; rather that they endeavour to maintain health rather than turn back the clock to better, younger health.

Aubrey did describe barriers he had overcome; he had come up against the establishment before achieving professional respect and credibility.  Isn’t that always the way?

I’m sold, and think Dr. Aubrey de Grey should have at the same profile as Dr Brian Cox, also that I will be buying Ending Aging and that biomedicine will probably do more for us humans than physics will in the short, medium and long term.

How much could you learn and do if your life was prolonged?

What Price a Poppy?

Each year, we join together to commemorate war dead and remember those killed by conflict.  Here in the UK, this national community event is driven by The British Legion and its Poppy Appeal.

The marketer in me stands awestruck at the success of this 90-year old social marketing campaign.  It doesn’t simply raise money for UK servicemen, women and their families, it makes us all stop and think – together – every single year.

What else does that?

Like all the best social marketing campaigns, it started with an ethical idea and wish to improve the lives of others.  The founder, Major George Howson MC, sought to provide meaningful work to those disabled during the First World War.  As I’m sure you’ve gathered, he was not a marketer.

We all recognise what’s right when we see it, and social marketing campaigns are those that illuminate it for us (ah hem, 5 a Day anyone?) in a clear, connected, direct way.  The poppy is extraordinary, started for the First World war and now invoking thoughts of combatants and civilians, killed by war, the world over.

The 21^st century poppy is a clear symbol that connects us back to the killing fields of  Flanders.  Through it, we continue to be connected to those who die by war and directly to those who survive it and make our poppies.

In those quiet moments, we think of those who died prematurely in horrifying circumstances, and are united in our humility and humanity.

If you do not succumb to this marketing campaign, shame on you.

Do you agree each poppy is priceless?

Season of Mad Weather and Fruitful Fruitiness!

Fruitful trees, if not wintry weather, have made a fitting backdrop to this month’s achievements.

A meeting with Manchester Literature Festival (MLF) organisers bubbled with ideas and ambitions, and a close symmetry with Forward Ladies emerged.  My aspirations for our services here in Manchester include a book / literary group, and engaging with the MLF moves things along nicely.  I’m enjoying many of this year’s MLF events and by next year will, I hope, have co-events in place.

The first training course offered in partnership with So…Business Solutions was a success at the beginning of the month.  On “Presenting You and Your Business”, the half day masterclass drew out objectives and messaging from all the delegates, including me.  The trainer was engaging and approachable, with considerable business experience from which to draw.  Typically for a Forward Ladies event, we were open and supportive of one another, providing productive feedback.  We all left with improved company presentations and numerous tools and techniques.  The next one, on social networking, can be booked here.

Would you like to reach 13,000 Forward Ladies?  If so, get in touch for a chat.

Since the spring, I have been working with commercial supporter of The Daisy Network, Nurture Replenish, on a press roundtable.  The Daisy Network is taking part to raise awareness of premature menopause, also known as premature ovarian failure.  With our full support, Sweet PR has done a great job of attracting a range of journalists to the event and we are optimistic that it will achieve online and offline coverage.

The one hiccup in the last few weeks has been missing Mobile Monday.  With an ill pet I’m afraid getting to the vet took precedent, but he’s all better now so looking forward to the next one.

Seeking ideas on subjects, I’ve suggested a debate on handset design.  Since the introduction of the iPhone this seems to have homogenized into rectangular screens, sized for men’s inside pockets.  Product design is a creative strength of ours here in  the UK: what are your thoughts on the shape and size of the device that’s always at our sides?

Thanks for reading and feel free to Comment :)

Summer Blooming

The shambolic weather this summer had little impact on my efforts, which proved lively enough.

Before heading off for a week in July, I hosted the first Champagne Masterclass for Forward Ladies here in Manchester.  Champagne bar Epernay hosted and the event sold out.  Members travelled from all over for that one, easily done with Deansgate train station so close.

Also launched Forward Ladies Business Breakfasts here in Manchester.  People have many demands on their time and, with the growth of Forward Ladies in the region, it was time to diversify the timing of our events.  Partnering with Second Floor Restaurant in Harvey Nicholls, Greater Manchester Business Week featured the event for us, helping spread the word, and that sold out too.  It had a great reception, demonstrating that morning gatherings fit well with the needs of women in business.  I'm now seeking a venue for our next one.

It was great to be a delegate at a couple of events too.  The amazing Ling Valentine at Saffery Champness Directors' Briefings gets top prize for content and delivery, who needs a hurricane to deliver fresh air???

Mobile Mondays arrived here in Manchester, courtesy of Nokia.  The first was a panel format with Mobile Website vs Apps on the agenda -a fantastic debate, the seco9nd featured Near Field Comminications (NFC) and a few interesting presentations.

Engaging with other business people is among the best ways to keep creativity blooming, reading is another and last week's launch of the Manchester Literature Festival was pretty good too.

Also did desk work of course.  Had huge amounts of paperwork to get through, I've an event coming up in October which has taken a great deal of thought, planning and preperation.  More of that in a later installment.

Ended the summer with a long weekend camping in Brecon with family, it was great.  Thank you The Boar's Head and The Lounge for welcoming us with our whippet Steve, 'twas a bit soggy to be stood outside!

I hope you had a good summer too?
 

Responsibility Without Power

News International and its leaders have been whirring in the background (and sometimes the foreground) for weeks now.  That story took me way back to cheap beer and “fuelled” debate as I studied the fourth edition of Power Without Responsibility once upon a time. That book talked about the Fourth Estate, here in the 21^st century it’s the leadership (bosses?) under our scrutiny.

Meanwhile, back on the sofa, I settled in to watch BBC 4’s Great Thinkers: In Their Own Words, which started this week.  I was chuffed to bits that they started with Human, All Too Human, which featured many of the people I studied back at Bradford University.  Up popped Stanley Milgram, arguably among our most influential leadership contributors.  His most famous study, known as the Milgram Experiment, investigated the atrocities of the Second World War and asked how they – Nazis – could possibly behave without conscience.  What Milgram discovered is that we – people – can behave that way when told to do so by a figure of authority.

That discovery has informed deployment of authority in organisations ever since, with empowering individuals alongside increased responsibility now the ideal.  With the help of education and, dare I praise it, the Internet, we’ve moved from “Yes, Sir!” to “Here’s what I think” from everyone in around the table.

Then I came online and reached Gill Corkindale on the Harvard Busines Review, top ranked by LinkedIn, who said News International leaders had been challenged with “wilful blindness”, legalese for “ignorance is no excuse”. 

Bosses (leaders?), practically 50 years on from Milgram’s experiment, are still dividing responsibility and power very much in their own interests, creating underperforming organisations with oppressive cultures.

Adrian Gaskell, for the Chartered Management Institute, makes a strong case against the hazards.

Power and responsibility go together like bread and butter, each too strong or too bland on its own.  And still we all know, and can all see, that many people in business end up with crusts.

Thank you to my fellow bloggers, on whose shoulders I wobble.

Some other leadership headlines piqued my interest and, being me, I dug and dug to find their source.  This is the best write-up I’ve managed to find:

http://funnybusiness.typepad.com/funnybusiness/2007/01/another_year_an.html

At present I’m my own boss, and will continue to be supportive, transparent and, as ever, sceptical about The Fourth Estate J

What about you…?

Health, History and Summer Holidays!

Hosted a ladies’ lunch at People’s History Museum last week.  Fantastic place; who wouldn’t want claim to it’s sub-title “Ideas Worth Fighting For”?  The current exhibition is interesting to the social marketer in me; it features banners.  These are the advertising of ideas, and the creativity that goes into them is as lively as the thoughts and feelings behind them and anything seen on our various screens

Anyway, back to lunch.  We made a diverse, chatty bunch, united by being women-in-business.  I took along this timeline to help spark conversation and we enjoyed sharing our thoughts and experiences as 21^st century working women; we are indeed on the shoulders of giants and will continue making strides.

I also had my regular visit to my premature menopause Consultant.  At The Daisy Network Conference in June, I listened carefully to the presentation by Mr Nick Panay and went to my appointment better informed.  I feel empowered by the information I have gained; it is certainly the case that our health is firmly in our own hands.  I will now be asking for a second opinion with confidence.  This is part of why working for The Daisy Network is so rewarding.  My press efforts would have got premature menopause (and me!) into a national paper if News International hadn’t stolen every page!  On this occasion I concede to The Fourth Estate ;-)

I’m rapidly accelerating toward a week in the sun, won in a competition no less!  I have no plans to look this particular gift-horse in the mouth; I’ll be relaxing with my other half and enjoying the day-dreaming time.  I’m now updating my audio device (a rather old award winner) and will end on a cheery musical note; Catboy Slim anyone?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTLgeqCaYMY&feature=player_embedded

Human Support

“Support” can mean anything from Spanx to a premium rate phone number, so I chose “human” as this is about the real thing - support from people.   This will be an ongoing subject because I enjoy ongoing support from, you guessed it, people J

This week I particularly felt the support of colleagues and professional associates. 

I had cause to reach out to people with whom I’ve shared professional challenges and successes.  I was buoyed up by their input.  I generally linked my job satisfaction and performance to them (a fantastic bunch). Achieving objectives with these expert colleagues was always a real buzz and I learned every time.  What I discovered is that they consider me an expert too.  It was extraordinary to read unambiguous accounts of our work together and discover I - marketing manager - was also instrumental in our projects and highly valued for it.  So a big thank you; you know who you are – and I can’t wait to work with you all again

I also benefitted from the Media Leaders event at Living Room, where I sweltered along with about 100 others and met some fantastic new professionals.  DLA Piper have a 21^st century working culture including its web activity; nice one.  Weber Shandwick has invested in a studio to offer cost effective video creation; another step forward for this leading PR agency.  Spoke about change management with an IT executive from PZ Cussons; good to know we’re all in it together on that front.  Talking about my own organisation, Forward Ladies, whose purpose is human support, ignited interest and buy-in from all, particularly two inspiring executives from BDB.  Thank so much Su Allen for bringing us together!

Finally, I stole some quite time to listen to an old Podcast in which this network, Forget-me-Not,  was featured and kinda made me think maybe human is the only support worth having:

http://www.innovationsindementia.org.uk/videos_walkinggroup.htm

My next event is:

http://www.forwardladies.com/networking-events-manchester/women-in-business-lunch-1870

Liberty and Sorority

Very early start last week with a Business Breakfast to initiate the Trafford Leadership Network, run by Trafford Partnership.  Fantastic to be in on something at the start, particularly something as optimistic and productive as this.  That was followed on Wednesday by lunch with other Forward Ladies at Cheshire Conference & Events.  As always, it was great to meet with other business women and I came away better informed and connected.  The mix was great with employed and self-employed women.  It emerged that running interests of our own alongside loyalty to our employers is good for both.  It enables us to diversify our own skills and experience, benefitting the employer, and provides an avenue of commercial independance should it be needed or wanted.

I attend many events and Forward Ladies are particularly rewarding.

On Thursday I met with a Forward Ladies member about event sponsorship before heading off to the The Point where 50 Trafford firms were appearing at a Business Showcase.  It’s a fantastic venue and the event demonstrated the local business community is as lively as ever, investing in sustaining themselves and sharing plans for growth.  The business week ended with a meeting at Betty’s Ilkley, that is a drive over gorgeous countryside and delicious cream tea, not to mention great decisions on all sides; result!

I found time today to “Listen Again” to the Reith Lecture, Aung San Suu Kyi: Liberty.  It was the right way to hear it as it deserved undivided attention.  I can’t recommend it enough, and hope it is still there now for you to listen to.  I’ll be scheduling that in for the next few weeks as this is one role model I will always learn from.

Next week I’ll be adding more Forward Ladies events and applying myself to content for the new Daisy Network site, but now I’m going out to catch the sun!

Premature Menopause – UK National Conference

Months of planning came to fruition on Saturday (18^th June 2011) with The Daisy Network’s 16^th Annual Conference.

The Conference is our Charity’s only national event, welcoming members from across the UK to hear the latest on managing premature menopause.  With a cracking line-up, including Nick Panay on health, Dr Beth Cartwright on research and Clare Grogan on adoption, the event attracted a record number of delegates with the room packed to bursting.

I was responsible for the delegate bag contents, online event management and securing an adoption speaker.  I have to confess, adding Clare Grogan, patron of BAAF, to our agenda has to be one of my proudest career moments!

Online registration helped members get tickets quickly and conveniently, and e-marketing ensured the full membership and online community knew about the event.  The goody bag was well served with a number of organisations contributing products to our Charity:

Nurture Replenish

Alpro

Green Spirit

Graze

Sylk

Vitabiotics

I found Nick Panay’s talk fantastic.  Treatments and best practice are developing continuously; The Daisy Network delivered in bringing the country foremost specialist medic to us.  My favourite was certainly Clare Grogan.  Clare was heartfelt and candid about the circumstances that led her to adoption, and passionate when expressing her love for her daughter.  The connect with the audience was direct, brining tears to eyes.

Feedback from the event has been fantastic, and I’m already thinking about the next one.  If you would like to support The Daisy Network, the UK’s only national peer support group for girls and young women with premature ovarian failure, please contact me.

Money Management

I really benefitted from the Forward Ladies half-day training I went on last week; “Your Money and How to Hang on To It”. 

The trainer was financial planning expert Flora Maudsley-Barton of Parsonage Group supported  by Amanda Turpin of Mitchell Charlesworth - and I now know what I ‘m doing about my tax return! 

This dry subject was lifted by Flora encouraging all us trainees to share life and business objectives, reminding us to tie our financial aspirations closely to them.  Amongst Forward Ladies trust emerges and we were all candid.  We know money is not an end in itself, but it was good to have an expert tell us!

From that strong start, the course went on to illuminate financial records, bookkeeping and basic tax allowances.  We laughed together at our foibles and errors – at least we can now nip them in the bud!  Valuable tips on how to keep the admin part of our efforts as straightforward as possible have already freed up time for me to write this! The investment and planning advice from Flora was great.  I don’t know about you but my foresight is often blinded by a pea-soup of financial terminology and figures.

This training will be repeated in September – and I can’t recommend it enough.