I’m joined by Lee Chambers, Founder and CEO of Male Allies UK, and honestly, his story is a masterclass in reinvention.

We go all the way back to growing up on a council estate in Bolton, being the kid who couldn’t stand unfairness, and how that same “I’ll step in” energy shaped everything that came after.

After a career spanning corporate finance and building and exiting a tech company, Lee now helps organisations engage men in inclusion and build effective allyship.

He’s a Great British Entrepreneur Award winner, was named 2023 UN Women Changemaker of the Year, and received the Freedom of the City of London in 2024 for services to equality in business.

In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to rebuild after life knocks you sideways, and how allyship gets practical when it’s grounded in everyday choices, not just good intentions.

Highlights:

(03:15) - Growing up in Bolton, social justice instincts, and being “the kid who stepped in”

(07:29) - University pressures, mental health struggles, and journaling before it was trendy

(11:50) - Redundancy as a turning point, boiler room living, and starting a business anyway

(16:29) - The health crisis that changed everything, losing mobility, then fighting to walk again

(21:45) - Becoming a stay-at-home dad, loneliness, and the eye-opening baby group moment

(34:35) - What Male Allies UK actually does, engaging men in inclusion and building real allyship

You can connect with Lee Chambers at:

https://www.maleallies.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leechambers-1/

And get your copy of Lee’s book here: Momentum: 13 Ways To Unlock Your Potential.

Connect with Lucy:

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