How former MD Liz Bradford found purpose, resilience, and visibility.

In this powerful first episode of Season 2 of Speech Bubbles, host Charlotte Otter talks to Liz Bradford, former MD and banking leader with an impressive career at HSBC, Merrill Lynch America, and SWIFT.

After hitting burnout, Liz rebuilt her life and leadership from the inside out — discovering how physical resilience and a renewed sense of purpose helped her not only recover, but thrive.

A self-confessed hardcore introvert, Liz shares how she rose to senior leadership by leaning into strategic visibility — becoming active in an Employee Resource Group for women, showcasing her transferable skills, and learning how to be seen for the impact she was already making.

She challenges the idea that visibility is selfish, reframing it as a key part of career growth:
“Being seen to be doing a good job is just as important as doing one.”

Liz also explores what it means to bring your whole self to work, warning against the energy drain of maintaining separate work and home personas. Her message is clear:
“Being yourself is more important than conforming and falling in line.”

If you’ve ever struggled with burnout, self-promotion, or the pressure to fit in, this episode offers insight, empathy, and actionable wisdom from someone who’s been there — and rebuilt stronger. Connect with Liz on LinkedIn · Learn more about Liz's work · · Follow Charlotte on LinkedIn · Subscribe to Speech Bubbles the newsletter · Link to buy We Need New Leaders

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