We get to know Lauren Winstanley – Private Client Executive at Broadway Insurance Brokers.

How do you like to start the day?

My youngest two children (twins) are 8 and they wake me every day with a hug and a smile. You can’t beat that! Then, before anything can be done, I like a nice cup of tea.

What’s the best part of your job? 

The people. I enjoy the diversity of the people we get to meet and build lasting relationships with. It is a privilege to be invited into homes and to get to know clients personally.

What’s your greatest fear?

To be convicted of a crime I didn’t commit and to have no way to prove my innocence. I realise it sounds crazy! I guess it originates from the classic dream where you’re shouting but no one can hear you. Just driving past a prison makes me shudder!

Who inspires you?

Right up there would have to be my girls who (unknowingly) encourage me to aspire to fulfil my potential. Also, I’m currently really enjoying listening to the Diary of a CEO podcast by Stephen Bartlett. I find his integrity infectious, and I think he’s a great role model for young people these days. I love the wide range of guests he has, the majority of which have inspirational stories to tell.

How would your friends and family describe you in three words?

Honest, Approachable, Loyal.

Who’s your favourite movie star?

I don’t really have a favourite, but I have met Johnny Depp and Anne Hathaway!

What’s your favourite book?

Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks and Me Before You by Jojo Moyes. I know, they couldn’t be more different!

What’s your favourite song of all time?

That’s hard! I love Fix You by Coldplay (especially when they played it live at Glastonbury in 2016), but I also love all things musical theatre and the songs in Les Miserables are up there with my favourites.

What book are you reading right now?

Inventing Ourselves – The Secret Life of the Teenage Brain by Sarah-Jayne Blakemore. We have a 13-year-old girl in the house. If you know, you know!

What’s the greatest invention of all time?

I’d love to say something intelligent and comment on some feat or marvel of engineering but on a daily basis, with life being as busy as it is, I’d have to say my hair straighteners!

Where do you go to relax?

I love getting out and about with our dog for a big walk, especially when the sun is shining and we’re not in a rush.

What country have you always wanted to visit?

I’d love to explore the Caribbean Islands both for their beaches and natural beauty.

Is there a sport you wish you could play?

I’ve been snowboarding a few times and really enjoyed it. I’d love to have the time to get better before I get too old!

Besides your phone, what do you always have with you?

Purse, keys, and a bottle of water. Oh, and children!

What’s your favourite dish to cook?

Spaghetti Bolognese – ultimate comfort food.

What’s your favourite post-work tipple?

In the Summer it’s a Gin &; Tonic (Hendricks, with cucumber, ice, and slimline tonic). In the Winter, a nice glass of red wine.

What’s the best advice you were ever given?

Be yourself. I realise just how important this is the older I get.

What was your first ever job?

I was a waitress in a café when I was 14. Several of the same customers used to come every week who I got to know well. I guess that’s where it all started!

What do you bring to a party?

A smile. My friends and family would say I’m chatty and can always be heard

What’s your favourite quote?

“I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious.” Albert Einstein.