Authentic, Ambitious and On Air

Women who bring heart, hustle, humour, and honesty to everything they do are our kind of women. They lift others up, carve their own paths, and prove resilience and joy can go hand in hand.

This week’s PowerWomen is someone who doesn’t just walk into a room.... she lights it up. With a voice that’s warm, witty, and wise (on and off air), and a presence that instantly puts you at ease, Charlie makes the world feel like a friendlier place. She’s a natural-born presenter, a creative force, and one of the most encouraging, capable women we’ve met. This is her story, in her own words:

When I say this has always been my dream, I mean always. I grew up completely hooked on E! Entertainment… Ryan Seacrest, Giuliana Rancic. Watching them, I felt that spark, that sense of yes, this is it.

At eight years old, I was already ‘on air’ with my tape recorder, interviewing my grandparents like they were A-listers at the Oscars. I didn’t fully understand it then, but I was already practising for the job I’d one day call my own.

Fast forward to my early twenties. I heard a radio ad for aspiring presenters and something told me to ‘go for it.’ Out of 65 students, I made the top eight. My reward? A 3am to 6am show. Not glamorous, but I loved it. It was my start: messy, imperfect, coffee-fuelled, and amazing.

In 2017, I visited the Isle of Man and instantly felt it was the place for me. I introduced myself to 3FM’s Managing Director, Ron Berry, and made a case for why he should take a chance on me. By then, I’d spent four years working in radio. That conversation turned into a job… and that job became home.

Since moving here, I’ve had the joy of:

• Hosting the island’s number one radio show

• Presenting everything from love songs to breakfast shows to weekend feel-good segments

• Interviewing politicians, artists, teachers, small business heroes—you name it

• Appearing on local and international TV

• Hosting live events, hyping up crowds, and creating unforgettable moments on stage

And more!

The Reality of Radio Life

People hear the show, the voice, the laughs, but behind the scenes, it’s been years of juggling three jobs: radio, marketing, and hospitality. Long shifts, tight budgets, no off switch. Yet, I wouldn’t give it up for anything.

Presenting might sound glamorous, and sometimes it is, but most days it’s hustle, improvisation, and “What am I even doing right now?”

Like the time I posed in a bathtub holding a “Coming Soon” sign to promote a new show. It felt quirky and fun… pre-Saltburn. Now? Not so much.

Or when I built a makeshift studio in my living room during COVID blankets on chairs, duvets over the mic, wires everywhere. It wasn’t pretty, but it kept the show alive. That time proved I could take my passion anywhere.

Then there were live broadcasts with very drunk crowds, chaotic interviews, unpredictable one-liners, and trying to keep things PG while staying professional. Multitasking like a boss!

The biggest challenge, though? Immigration. It held me back for years. I’m certain I’d be further along if not for those restrictions, but I kept pushing even when the path seemed impossible.

And money? Unless you’re Greg James or Zoe Ball, it’s hard to make a living presenting alone. So, I juggled radio gigs, marketing contracts, and bar shifts. Three jobs. One dream.

It’s been messy and exhausting, but I never stopped showing up. When the mic went live, I knew exactly why I was doing it. When you’re doing something you love, no matter what the energy is there to make it happen. 

So, why do I love this job?

It’s that fizzy, nervous energy just before going live, the kind that hits your stomach and wakes up every sense.

It’s the quiet thrill of knowing someone, somewhere, is listening. Whether it’s one person or thousands, there’s a real-time connection… and that’s magic.

And honestly? Being stopped and hearing “I love your show” there’s nothing like it. Knowing you’ve made someone’s day just by doing what you love? That’s everything.

What I Wish I Knew Sooner

Oh, so much, darlin’ but here’s the biggest stuff I’d pass on to anyone just starting out:

• Work hard, yes, but don’t break yourself trying to prove you’re worth it. You already are.

• Not everyone will cheer you on, especially as a woman in media. That’s tough, but it doesn’t mean you don’t belong. Keep pushing.

• Above all, be yourself. Don’t force the funny or chase trends. People want realness, so show up exactly as you are. That’s where the magic is.

  
  

What I’m Manifesting Next

Now that I finally have citizenship, I’m ready to stretch. I want to break into the national market radio and maybe TV too.

I’ve started DJing again (#FridayNightCharlie is back!), and I’m loving the energy it brings. I’m itching to launch a podcast, something honest, funny, and a little chaotic.

Ultimately, my dream is to travel, tell stories, meet incredible people, and eat delicious food along the way. If I can blend storytelling, culture, and cuisine? I’ll be in heaven.

Because for me, it’s always been about connection. Whether it’s through a mic, a meal, or a moment… that’s what I’m here to create.

Charlie, your energy is electric, your talent undeniable, and your heart one of the kindest we’ve ever encountered. You cheerlead for everyone else without hesitation, and now it’s your turn to be celebrated.

Thank you for showing us what it looks like to chase your dream with determination. We can’t wait to see where you go next and we’ll be tuning in, dancing along, and clapping wildly the whole way. Go get it, Charlie. You were made for this. 💖