Capability from communication with Mary Teymoury

In this episode, Alanna Ball sits down with Mary Teymoury for a thoughtful and honest conversation about what effective safety leadership really looks like. Drawing on more than 15 years in health and safety, Mary reflects on how her perspective has evolved, particularly through systems thinking, professional courage, and the way safety professionals communicate with people at all levels of an organisation.

Rather than focusing solely on technical controls or compliance, this episode explores the human side of safety. Mary shares why curiosity, understanding, and asking better questions are critical to building trust and influence, and how safety leaders can move from enforcing rules to shaping culture.

Episode highlights

• Mary’s journey through health and safety and how systems thinking reshaped her view of risk

• Why many safety failures are human in nature, not technical

• The role of communication in turning insight into influence

• What professional courage looks like when challenging leaders respectfully

• Shifting from a compliance mindset to genuine safety leadership

• How curiosity helps create understanding and trust in safety conversations

• The value of diversity of voices in improving safety outcomes

• Why building capability in others is key to sustainable leadership

• How asking better questions can transform safety discussions

This episode is a grounded reminder that strong safety leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about being curious, courageous, and willing to challenge thinking in constructive ways. Mary’s insights highlight the importance of systems thinking, human connection, and developing others as part of creating workplaces where safety and trust can genuinely thrive. For current and emerging safety professionals, this conversation offers practical reflection on how to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

If you are looking to grow your influence, shift conversations, and lead safety in a more meaningful way, this episode will encourage you to reflect on how you think, communicate, and show up in your role.

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