How we make change through challenge
Through thought-provoking interviews with Senior Officers and Officials and comprehensive dialogues on headline topics, we stimulate fresh perspectives and encourage the defence sector to reassess its practices. Our aim is not just to question the status quo, but to propose practical solutions that promote equity and inclusivity.
Founder, Angela Owen, asks the tough questions about gender balance and equity within the MoD. What lessons have been learned that can influence wider defence? What changes have they made to further women’s and men’s opportunities within the MoD?
WHISKEY VICTOR PODCAST
Whiskey Victor invites influential women from inside and outside of defence—from military personnel to peers of the realm, engineers to intelligence analysts, company Chairs and CEOs to civic leaders —to share the moments that defined their journeys, the lessons they’ve learned, and the changes they hope to see.
With thanks to our Challenge Pankhurst Partner Fujitsu, in Series 2, Women in Defence UK Founder Angela Owen OBE returns with another remarkable line-up. This series launches with powerful conversations featuring: Maj Gen Laura Swaan Wrede of the Swedish Armed Forces, Dame Lynne Owens, formally Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and Dame Julia Hoggett, CEO of the London Stock Exchange .
Each guest offers a unique lens on defence today- and answers the signature question:
- Which three words best define you? (Inspired by the What3Words format)
These are honest, insightful, and often surprising discussions that explore everything from leading under pressure to building inclusive teams, driving innovation, and strengthening resilience in a rapidly changing world.
Listen now to Series 2 - and explore all episodes from Series 1 in the links below. Whether you're in defence, an ally, or simply curious about leadership at its best, Whiskey Victor will educate, challenge, and inspire.
Whiskey Victor Series 2
Whiskey Victor welcomes Maj Gen Laura Swaan Wrede, Swedish Armed Forces
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Whiskey Victor welcomes Dame Lynne Owens DCB, CBE,QPM,DL former Deputy Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police
Watch VideoWhiskey Victor Series 1
Whiskey Victor welcomes Vice Chief of the Defence Staff General Dame Sharon Nesmith
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Whiskey Victor welcomes Dame Ruth Cairnie DBE
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Whiskey Victor welcomes Baroness Goldie DL
Watch VideoCHALLENGE INTERVIEWS
Challenge Interview with First Sea Lord Admiral Sir Ben Key KCB CBE ADC
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Challenge Interview with Andy Start
Next in our series of Challenge Interviews, featuring Andy Start, the CEO of DE&S, in partnership with Newton.
Interviewed by our founder Angela Owen, during this year’s Defence Vehicle Demonstration (DVD) on Weds 18th September.
Challenge Interview with General Sir Patrick Sanders
Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Patrick Sanders speaks to Angela Owen OBE about hard hitting topics including; bullying, sexual harassment, zero tolerance and diversity on Army Boards.
We also hear from Lara Russell-Jones, Director at Newton Europe, our Challenge Interview series partner.
Challenge Interview with Maj Gen Tom Bewick OBE
Major General Tom Bewick has a broad role as General Officer Commanding, Army Recruiting and Initial Training Command (ARITC) within the British Army. Angela Owen OBE, Founder of Women in Defence UK, discusses his varied and illustrious career, and challenges him on what the Army are doing to increase the recruitment of women.
In conversation with Lt Gen James Swift CB OBE
General Swift took up the post of Chief of Defence People only a few weeks before the Covid-19 pandemic gripped the country, and changed the way in which we all worked. During his tenure, the MOD has also responded to the HCDC report ‘Women in the Armed Forces – From Recruitment to Civilian Life’ and introduced changes as a result. We discussed what’s changed and what still needs to change, especially in the women’s arena.
In conversation with David Williams CB
We interviewed Permanent Secretary at the MOD, David Williams on 8th March 2023. David is an advocate of equity, diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Our Impact
Our challenge-led approach has sparked significant shifts in the defence landscape, with our external viewpoint, we are able to raise questions and issues with senior leaders that might not otherwise reach them. By continually challenging norms, we will foster an environment that recognises and respects the unique role of women in defence.
Engage with Us
We invite our partners, and our wider community to join us in this challenge. Whether it's by attending our discussions or contributing insights, your involvement is key to driving change.
Other ways to get involved