In this episode of The Longest Day podcast, host Leah Brown FRSA sits down with Alys Carlton, former mergers and acquisitions lawyer, executive coach, Non-Executive Director, and Chair of the Football Association of Wales to talk about a season marked out by grief and gratitude. Alys shares the extraordinary journey behind her "longest day" a 24-hour period that spanned a deeply personal loss and a pivotal career milestone. In this candid conversation, Alys opens up about navigating grief, professional ambition, and finding strength through challenging circumstances. Key takeaways include  the importance of resilience and compartmentalisation when navigating both personal and professional challenges. how a portfolio career allows for greater flexibility and personal fulfillment, but requires perseverance and the willingness to keep pushing forward. the significance of family, mentorship, and legacy in shaping one's career and personal journey. strategies for maintaining focus and self-care during times of grief and high stress. the power of diverse leadership and governance in organisations, and how Alys plans to make a lasting impact in her role at the FAW.