Real people, Real stories - A Baker Tilly podcast

Jen Muckler: Pyjama patrol

In this episode of Real people, Real stories, host Abigail Bruce speaks with Jen Muckler, marketing coordinator at Baker Tilly (Canada’s) Ottawa office and founder of Pyjama Patrol – a community movement that has delivered more than 30,000 new pairs of pyjamas to children and families across shelters, schools, hospitals and community organisations.

Jen reflects on how a simple gift of pyjamas can help families in need establish calming bedtime routines, transforming an everyday ritual into a moment of comfort and security. She shares how the initiative has mobilised schools, sports teams and businesses, and inspired young people to discover purpose through giving.

Andrew Paul: Joy through purpose

In this episode of Real people, Real stories, host Abigail Bruce speaks with Andrew Paul, Director of Audit Technical at Baker Tilly International. Andrew reflects on his path from accountancy into training and on the fulfilment he’s found through volunteering and supporting others. His message: do the things that bring you joy – even if they push you out of your comfort zone.

Jose Rodriguez: Catwalk to happiness

In this episode of Real People, Real Stories, host Abigail Bruce speaks with José Rodriguez, managing partner at Baker Tilly (Puerto Rico), who shares his unexpected journey into classic modelling later in life, alongside his established accounting career. José reflects on what motivated him to take this path, the joys and challenges of balancing two very different worlds, and how pursuing new passions can bring happiness at any stage of life.

Anthony Lewis: Freedom to be you

In this episode of Real People, Real Stories, host Abigail Bruce speaks with Anthony Lewis, Director at Baker Tilly (US), to explore his inspiring journey of embracing authenticity in the workplace. Anthony shares the challenges he faced as a gay professional navigating corporate culture and reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his path.

He underscores the importance of mentorship and the role of allies in fostering truly inclusive environments. This episode encourages listeners to be true to themselves and highlights the transformative power of diverse mentorship in shaping career paths.

Marisa Hut: Accelerating action to shape an inclusive future

In this episode of Real people, Real stories, host Abigail Bruce interviews Marisa Hut, a VAT specialist and partner at Baker Tilly Netherlands. Marisa shares her unique journey from struggling student to becoming a partner, emphasising the importance of passion and authenticity in one's career. The episode highlights the Female Inc initiative, which Marisa helped launch to foster inclusion and support women in the workplace.

See Mun Sek: From vision to reality

In this episode of  Real people, Real stories, host Abigail Bruce interviews See Mun Sek, an Assurance Partner at Baker Tilly in Singapore. See Mun shares her journey from moving to Singapore at 18, juggling work and studies, to becoming a partner in the assurance division. She highlights her early career challenges and the significant gaps she noticed in the business world, particularly the lack of female leaders.

Inspired by Sheryl Sandberg's book "Lean In" and interactions with successful female entrepreneurs, See Mun began taking on bigger challenges and spearheading initiatives, such as hosting an IPO event. She discusses the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and tackling new opportunities head-on.

Brian Kreischer: Coaching for trust

In this episode of Real people, Real stories, Abigail Bruce and Brian Kreischer delve into the crucial role of  coaching and trust within professional environments. They explore how trust is built through active listening, empathy, and conversation, the challenges encountered, and its impact on performance. They also discuss how coaching fosters positive change and how people can start their own coaching journey.

Annie Walton: Planet saviour

In this episode of Real People, Real Stories, host Androulla Soteri is joined by Annie Walton, ESG Director at Baker Tilly's UK member firm MHA. Annie shares her journey of promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices, discussing ESG initiatives, challenges in corporate sustainability, individual consumer choices, educating without preaching, and the future importance of ESG in business.