Hearing Your Self: Debra Clelland

Welcome to another episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this inspiring conversation, Jon Oliff sits down with Debra Clelland, CEO of Deaf Kids International and a powerhouse of perseverance, humility, and vision. From her early days growing up in South Africa and battling feelings of uncertainty, to years spent navigating the high-pressure world of investment banking in London, Debra opens up about the pivotal moments and life lessons that shaped her incredible journey. 

Debra shares moving stories of adventure, near-disaster, and profound self-discovery from her travels around the world, and speaks honestly about her experiences with impostor syndrome—even at the pinnacle of her corporate career. She takes us through the transformative chapter of becoming a parent, the challenges and gifts of raising a deaf child, and how personal adversity became the fuel for passion-driven advocacy. 

This episode is a deep dive into the magic that happens when we step outside our comfort zones, trust the process, and choose courage in the moments that count. Whether you’re looking for insight on building resilience, creating meaningful change, or just a dose of human inspiration, this conversation with Debra Clelland is not to be missed. 

Timestamped Overview: 

00:00 Reflecting on Teenage Choices 

09:13 Crawling to Captain's Assurance 

15:31 Creativity Sparked by Movement 

19:22 Financial Data Analysis Challenges 

22:11 "15-Year Imposter Syndrome Journey" 

27:38 Pushing Limits in Marathon Training 

36:11 Building Self-Worth for Success 

40:34 Execution Over Strategy 

44:02 Finding Courage Through Partnerships 

51:19 Perception is Personal 

57:31 "Deaf Children Safeguarding Mission" 

01:01:59 "Deaf Kids' Global Authentic Impact" 

01:07:30 Teaching Safety Awareness to Children 

01:08:52 Children's Safety and Rights Advocacy 

01:17:52 "Unwavering Support with Boundaries" 

01:22:37 "Creating Safe Spaces for Disclosure" 

01:27:47 Discomfort and Consistency Drive Success 

Quote: 

"There are times when life offers you a square centimeter of chance, and if you have the courage at that moment to grasp that square centimeter, your life will be changed in an instant.” - Unknown 

Advertising Campaign: 

“Beat The Bends” by BMW: https://youtu.be/cwPrlsJYwKY 

👣 Relevant Links 

Debra Clelland:   

Deaf Kidz International: https://deafkidzinternational.org/our-people/  

Thrive: https://www.thrivesa.org.za/how-to-get-in-touch/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-clelland-54279b1a/  

Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/safeonline/53851452263  

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