Todays guests discuss Game Jam, an event where teams will design and develop a new game within a fixed period of time, usually restricted to specific themes. Zoe is joined by Softwire's Project Manager, Matt, and Senior Technical Leads, Harry and Michael to talk about what they love about Game Jams and how Softwire has gotten involved.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Matt barnfield, Michael Kearns and Harry Cummings

Game Jam

Digital Lighthouse Jen Dallas (Softwire)

On this week's Digital Lighthouse, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Jen Dallas, Head of Digital UK and Ireland at RSA Insurance. Jen talks about the work she and her team have done to develop customer experiences across their platform. She explores the RSA's use of user testing, research and leadership to help create huge efficiency gains, and what has been valuable for the RSA's position in the financial services sector.

Jen Dallas is the Head of Digital at RSA Insurance, where her current focus is on delivering ecommerce growth and strategically aligned, customer-centric product developments. She has spent the past 15 years honing her skills in the travel and insurance sectors, using her expertise to solve business problems through digital solutions, driving online adoption.

How the RSA is delivering great customer experiences to its financial services users

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Liv Wild, engineering director of technology reservation checkout at Expedia.  We explore her role, the innovative changes happening at Expedia, how her team works and what leadership looks like for the future. Transcript available at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/how-expedia-is-creating-great-checkout-experiences-using-technology-leadership-and-innovation

How Expedia is creating great checkout experiences using technology, leadership and innovation

Joe Edwards, Technical Principal, and Daniel Waters, delivery principal at Softwire, share how to use DevOps to make your developers more productive. They discuss what they mean by productivity and DevOps, and why DevOps is particularly relevant for financial services.

To read the transcript, visit https://www.softwire.com/insights/how-to-use-devops-to-make-your-developers-more-productive

How to use DevOps to make your developers more productive

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Jonny Britton, who is a co-founder and the CEO of LandTech. He discusses how LandTech started as a response to unclear and missing tools for property developers and self-builders to buy land. Jonny shares how the company is fulfilling its customers' needs and how technology has been the catalyst for supporting urban development. To find out more and access the transcript, visit: https://www.softwire.com/insights/landtech-how-technology-is-increasing-land-access-in-property-development

LandTech: How technology is increasing land access in property development

As a CTO, how can you create your own community of peers? Even if you're working with your team leads and C-Level colleagues, you may still feel lonely at times.

CTO Craft’s community brings together technology leaders from across the world and its founder, Andy Skipper, shares how it all started and how to build your own network of peers. Transcript available at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/cto-craft-building-a-community-for-ctos-and-digital-leaders/

If you’re interested in seeing more from CTO Craft, check out their upcoming events: CTO Craft Con Winter 2022 virtual conference (https://conference.ctocraft.com/) and CTO Craft Bytes – Networks for Tech Leaders: Creating, Using and Nurturing, a London-based in-person event (https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cto-craft-bytes-networks-for-tech-leaders-creating-using-and-nurturing-tickets-443383260267), this November.

CTO Craft: Building a community for CTOs and digital leaders

Zoe Cunningham is joined by Sophia Lin, senior sales manager, and Sasha Burgoyne, head of academy operations at TechSwitch to talk about how people of all backgrounds can approach career changing into technology successfully. See the full transcript and more at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/what-routes-into-technology-are-available-for-female-and-diverse-career-changers

What routes into technology are available for female and diverse career changers?

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Hywel Carver, founder of Skiller Whale. This organisation provides deep coaching for tech teams, believing that learning that is core to how an engineering team operates and should align with business priorities. In our conversation, Hywel discusses why Skiller Whale came about and how to make the most of any tech training for your team. Read the full transcript here: https://www.softwire.com/insights/skiller-whale-why-companies-need-a-different-strategy-for-training-their-developers/

Skiller Whale: Why companies need a different strategy for training their developers

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Jason Souloglou, founder and CEO of SeeChange Technologies, a world-leader in real-time AI powered recognition systems, with expertise in making complex, state of the art AI technology simple to deploy and scale.

Jason speaks about how their AI technology services excel within the retail sector to support loss prevention and health and safety compliance, where AI can go in the future and how it can support positive social change.

Read the transcript and find out more at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/seechange-harnessing-the-power-of-ai-to-drive-positive-social-change

SeeChange: Harnessing the power of AI to drive positive social change

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Anne Currie, Community co-Chair of the Green Software Foundation. Anne shares her experience and talks about the key pressing climate issues for the tech industry right now, the best things that tech teams can do to reduce their impact on the planet, and what research is saying about how the digital age has changed. Learn more by listening to the podcast or reading the full transcript at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/greening-your-digital-infrastructure-strategies-for-sustainable-technology-teams

Greening your digital infrastructure: Strategies for sustainable technology teams

In a frank conversation with Kevlin Henney, packed with interesting anecdotes and thought-provoking suggestions, we discussed topics such as: Why most developers code for the past, our moral responsibility to think about future uses of our code, as well as how technology companies can weather tough economic times.
Read the highlights summary here: www.softwire.com/insights/highlights-from-kevlin-henneys-techtalk-developers-have-a-moral-responsibility-to-code-for-the-future

Kevlin Henney's #TechTalk: Developers have a moral responsibility to 'code for the future'

Zoe Cunningham is joined by Aya Stead, software developer at Softwire to talk about neurodiversity in her role. She shares the ways she developed to look after her mental health, in the hope it can help other software engineers too. View the full transcript at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/navigating-neurodiversity-how-can-software-developers-support-their-mental-health-in-the-workplace/

Navigating neurodiversity: How can software developers support their mental health in the workplace?

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Joanna Smith, Interim CIO at University Hospitals Sussex. We dive deep into the world of healthcare technology with Joanna, a seasoned professional who has worked across various organisations. She shares her insights into the differences between the pharmaceutical industry and the NHS, shedding light on the challenges they face and the opportunities technology presents. Discover why embracing technology in healthcare is essential for improving patient care and operational efficiency, and learn about the exciting developments and innovations in the healthcare technology landscape that are transforming the way we receive medical care. Read the full transcript at: https://www.softwire.com/insights/transforming-nhs-technology-using-insights-from-pharma-to-create-new-opportunities-in-healthcare/

Transforming NHS technology: Using insights from pharma to create new opportunities in healthcare

In our latest episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Tom Riley, Delivery Principal at Softwire.

Tom has overseen the successful delivery of numerous UK public sector digital projects, including the modernisation of the register to vote service, the cloud migration of the gender pay gap reporting service, and the replacement of the software underpinning the high-profile Feed-in-Tariff scheme.

In this wide-ranging chat with Zoe, he shares insights on how to keep abreast of a diverse portfolio of projects, how to ensure teams stay up-to-speed with the latest GDS and industry best practices, and why he sometimes prefers old-fashioned pen-and-paper, and face-to-face communication, over their modern digital alternatives.

Of course, no tech-related discussion at the moment would be complete without touching on artificial intelligence (AI), and Tom shares his thoughts on the opportunities and risks associated with AI in the unique context of government.

Getting it all done as a senior tech leader

In our latest Digital Lighthouse episode, Sarah Hale, Senior Director of Engineering at Unity Technology joins Zoe Cunningham to talk gaming, career paths, and the importance of clarity when leading a team.

Sarah reflects on how she’s needed to evolve as she’s worked her way up to an engineering leadership role, while still regularly drawing on the skills she learnt early in her career.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in a technical or engineering role thinking about where they’d like to go next in their careers, and for engineering leaders looking to learn from someone in a similar position.

The things I didn't expect I would have to do as CTO

In this enlightening episode of the Digital Lighthouse, we sit down with Denholm Hesse, Chief Data Officer at BDO. 

With a rich background spanning over a decade in data management, including pioneering roles at Deloitte and Prudential, Denholm brings unparalleled insights into leveraging data as a strategic asset. 

Our conversation dives into the evolving role of data governance, the innovative concept of a data marketplace, and the critical importance of data quality and trust in driving business efficiency. 

Join us as Denholm shares his visionary approach to harnessing data's potential in turbulent times, illuminating the path for businesses aiming to thrive in the information economy.

Data as an Asset: Navigating the Future with BDO's Chief Data Officer, Denholm Hesse

Modernising legacy software and infrastructure is hard. Really hard.

Nobody wants to be lumbered in a clunky inefficient system. But “slaying the monolith” is easier said than done. 

Just ask Anthony Nolan. Increasingly hampered by its existing technology, the stem cell transplant charity was struggling to iterate and facing increasingly high levels of friction.

So what do you do? Build a totally new piece of technology? Or rewire the existing system? Turns out, it’s a bit of both. 

In our latest episode, Softwire’s Ben Below details how the organisation successfully embarked on a modernisation journey.

How Anthony Nolan modernised its legacy infrastructure

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Softwire Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Richard G Brown, Founding CTO and Advisor to the CEO at R3. Together, they explore the practical applications of enterprise blockchain, digital currencies, and confidential computing. From scaling high-performance tech teams to navigating emerging technologies, Richard shares invaluable insights on how businesses can evaluate and integrate blockchain solutions for maximum value.

Digital privacy, blockchain and the future of finance with Richard G Brown

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Kamales Lardi, CEO at Lardi & Partner Consulting, to discuss The Brain Code, how leaders can use neuroscience to break through resistance, foster trust, and build a truly human-centric approach to digital transformation.

How neuroscience can make or break your digital transformation journey

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse,, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Shaukat Ali Khan, Executive Chief Digital and Information Officer (CDIO) at NHS, to explore the future of digital healthcare, including the importance of leveraging AI in healthcare, balancing innovation with governance, and creating patient-centric digital transformations.

How the NHS is driving patient-centric digital transformation

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Software Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Simon Wardley, Owner of Swardley Maps, to share how business leaders can better navigate digital transformation through visual mapping techniques.

Understanding your economic and technology landscape with Wardley Mapping

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Software Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Ann-Marie Gallacher, Chief Information Officer at NHS 24 Scotland, to explore how AI and digital transformation are revolutionizing healthcare delivery while maintaining clinical safety and patient care standards.

Inside the AI-Driven Revolution at NHS 24 with Ann-Marie Gallacher

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse - The Software Podcast, host Zoe Cunningham is joined by Ben Bilsland, a Partner and Head of Technology Industry at RSM UK, to dive into a wide-ranging conversation about the future of UK tech and macro trends shaping it.

Why London's Tech Ecosystem Is #3 Globally and Rising with Ben Bilsland

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham speaks with Catherine Stagg-Macey, executive coach, advisor, and host of the Unsaid At Work podcast. After more than 20 years in consulting and operations, Catherine has seen how traditional command-and-control leadership fails in fast-moving tech environments.

Together they explore why authenticity and vulnerability are not weaknesses but core strengths for today’s technology leaders. Catherine shares how letting go of the illusion of control, acknowledging challenges, and treating teams like adults can transform culture, build trust, and unlock better performance—even in turbulent times.

Discover
How to show vulnerability without oversharing: sharing “scars” rather than open wounds
Why authenticity builds stronger teams and reduces the burden on leaders 
Why “motivation” isn’t something leaders can inject, but a balance of clear direction and the right people
The difference between acknowledgement and toxic positivity—and why it matters
Strategies for motivating self-driven teams without micromanagement
How to handle difficult conversations when budgets tighten or uncertainty looms
Practical ways to co-create solutions with your team while retaining decision-making authority



If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. We would also appreciate a few moments of your time to rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify; we value all feedback from our listeners to deliver the best content and experience.

Why authenticity and vulnerability define great tech leaders with Catherine Stagg-Macey

What separates a good team from a truly great one? In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham sits down with Sean Riches, founder and managing director of Erskine Nash Associates, to explore the science and psychology behind high-performing teams.

With over 20 years’ experience in leadership, organisational psychology, and consultancy, Sean has worked with global giants like Vodafone, Oracle, Microsoft, and TCS. Through his CAB model — Clarity, Alignment, Behaviour — he helps leaders and teams move beyond competence to excellence.

Together, Zoe and Sean unpack the real drivers of team effectiveness, from psychological safety to behavioural alignment, and share practical ways to measure and improve performance across thinking and feeling dimensions.

In this episode, discover:

The five key traits of high-performing teams (from Google’s Project Aristotle)

How to measure both the cognitive and emotional sides of team effectiveness

Why clarity, alignment, and behaviour are the foundation of lasting performance

How leaders can overcome fear, complexity, and disengagement

Real-world techniques for assessing and improving team dynamics

If you enjoy this episode, please follow The Digital Lighthouse and we'd appreciate a quick rating or review. Your feedback helps us continue bringing you expert insights on leadership, technology, and the future of work.

From good to great: The secrets of team effectiveness with Sean Riches

In this episode of The Digital Lighthouse, host Zoe Cunningham talks with Clare Sudbery — independent technical coach, consultant, and international speaker with over 25 years in software engineering. Clare has worked across healthcare, insurance, and travel, and now helps technical teams boost performance through clarity, alignment, and collaboration.

Together they explore ensemble working — also known as mob programming or software teaming — and why it’s a powerful shift from solo coding to true collective problem-solving. Clare explains how ensemble working speeds up delivery, reduces risk, and builds stronger, kinder teams that learn faster and work better together.

Discover:

What ensemble working is and how it extends pair programming

Why complex systems demand collaboration, not heroics

How agile and XP principles shape ensemble practices

The hidden costs of handoffs and meetings — and how to remove them

Why onboarding, training, and new features are ideal starting points

How kindness and fast feedback drive high performance

See Clare live on 16 October at Outpace Conf Manchester → outpaceconf.com

Why ensemble working builds stronger engineering teams with Clare Sudbery | The Digital Lighthouse

Why do technology projects get so messy even when they start with clear plans and enthusiastic teams? And what can leaders do to navigate the chaos in the middle?

In this episode, Zoe Cunningham speaks with Rachael Morgan, an experienced Head of Technology. She has worked in different industries from the NHS, betting and gaming, and is currently in finance. 

They explore the messy middle of tech delivery. Drawing on experience across the NHS, Sky Betting and Gaming, and now Flutter, Rachael explains why delivery challenges rarely come from the technology itself, but from people, process choices, and the complexity of real organisational ecosystems.

Rachael shares practical insights from leading six global data engineering teams, including how to strike the right balance of process, how to understand and use individual strengths within a team, and why continuous communication is essential when navigating uncertainty.

🔎 You’ll learn:
• What the “messy middle” is and why every technology project encounters it
• Why humans, not technology, are the real drivers of delivery success
• How process frameworks help, hinder, and grow unintentionally over time
• The risks of over-processing and under-processing in regulated environments
• How leaders can use metrics and communication to spot real delivery risks early
• Why understanding your team and understanding yourself sit at the core of effective leadership
• How reflection helps leaders manage emotion, complexity, and decision making

💡 Whether you lead engineering teams, manage digital projects, or work anywhere near technology delivery, this conversation offers practical and thoughtful guidance for handling complexity with confidence.

⸻

Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
01:11 – Rachael’s career journey through NHS, gaming, and data leadership
03:52 – What the “messy middle” means in tech delivery
07:07 – Why technology is binary but delivery is human
08:47 – Process frameworks, complexity, and making the right choices
11:30 – How much process is “just enough”?
14:18 – Learning from other leaders and industries
20:01 – Is Agile the answer?
21:18 – Humans are messy, and that is a strength
23:56 – Understanding individuals and leadership at scale
24:48 – How to tell normal problems from real project danger
28:11 – Why leaders must understand themselves

⸻

🎧 Listen to The Digital Lighthouse:
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🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, innovation, and the human side of technology.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming interviews. We’d also appreciate a quick rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your feedback helps us continue improving the show.

#TechLeadership #DigitalDelivery #EngineeringManagement #ProjectDelivery #RachaelMorgan #TheDigitalLighthouse #ZoeCunningham #FlutterEntertainment #MessyMiddle #Softwire

Navigating the messy middle of technology projects with Rachael Morgan

Changing careers is often a daunting process, and rarely talked about. In this episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Software Developers, Lorraine Phillips, and Julian Ng to discuss what it's like changing careers to software development, and where to start.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Lorraine Phillips and Julian Ng

Career Change

Building a strong community in the workplace is important for staff morale and collaborative work projects. In this episode, Zoe Cunningham is joined by Senior Software Developer, Sarah Binney, and Senior Technical Lead, Michael Kearns to talk about the puzzling community at Softwire.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Sarah Binney and Michael Kearns

Dreamcatcher: Puzzling at Softwire

"It's not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is what are we busy about?" (Henry David Thoreau) In this episode, Zoe Cunningham shares some insight into the importance of prioritization, in both what and how quickly, technical teams should be building products and services. Zoe is joined by Softwire Senior Project Manager, Adam Smith, and Senior Product Manager, Sona Hathi.

Hosted by Zoe Cunningham
with Adam Smith and Sona Hathi

Prioritization

The Digital Lighthouse is a podcast for CTOs and other tech leaders looking to navigate their organisation through endless disruption and turbulence. Packed full of real life stories and insights, this podcast serves as your guiding light - wherever you are in your journey and whatever challenges you face.

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