Lydia Stevens

Most of us spend our working lives moving from one thing to the next. Meetings. Emails. Notifications. Deadlines. Before we know it, another day has gone by without much time to think, pause or have the kinds of conversations we'd really like to have.

That's one of the reasons that Elevate Netwalking® exists.

Our walks bring together connection, coaching and community through nature. They're a chance to step away from your desk for a couple of hours, enjoy a walk, meet other like-minded professionals, and have the kinds of conversations that often don't happen in a meeting room or at a traditional networking event.

We believe that a change in perspective doesn't come from finding the answer. It comes from changing the conditions in which we're asking the question.

Nature isn't just where we meet. It plays an important part in co-creating those conditions with us. We also believe our relationship with nature should be reciprocal, so through our Ambassador community, we're committed to caring for the places we walk and supporting local charities and community projects along the way.

As part of our partnership with nature 10% of ticket sales will go directly to conserve, protect and improve nature through Wimbledon and Putney Commons Conservators - registered charity number 303167

"A really positive experience. Lydia was warm and welcoming, a wonderful guide through Wimbledon Common, encouraging me to look around and up as I walked, talked and explored where I want to be. I’d thoroughly recommend netwalking to anyone.". Ros Ellis, Head of Publicity and Author relations at Bloomsbury Publishing

"The netwalking session was a great way to meet like-minded women and share experiences and challenges in a safe space whilst being outdoors in a beautiful natural setting". Emma, Marketing Consultant

"I really enjoyed the outdoor coaching session. The natural setting was energising and helped create a relaxed space for reflection and learning. Connecting with other professional women, sharing experiences, and supporting each other made the experience valuable. I came away feeling empowered, and encouraged". Claire, Partner in City Law Firm.

"Being in nature really helps to give space to clearer thinking and the opportunity to share and learn in collaboration with others was incredibly helpful and encouraging”.  Helen Ketchin, Strategic Consultant

Lydia Stevens is an executive leadership coach, facilitator and thinking partner who has spent the last few years developing her coaching practice with clients in person or on the phone, often whilst walking in Wimbledon Common. With a background in founding, growing and selling Triple Line Consulting, she has personal experience of leadership, entrepreneurship, and board-level roles. She understands the complexities of decision-making and leading teams and companies within an ever changing uncertain context, locally and globally. Her coaching style is direct and challenging yet rooted in empathy, positive psychology and learning from how nature operates. She supports leaders in navigating change, building confidence, and unlocking their full potential.

First time participants - if you are interested in principle and have questions about the experience, please contact Lydia Stevens  -  1lydiastevens@gmail.com

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What’s the difference between Elevate Netwalking® and going for a walk with a group of friends?

Elevate Netwalking® is a combination of networking, walking and coaching. We are setting the conditions for deeper conversations than would be possible in a meeting room. You might arrive feeling overwhelmed, stressed and with a long to do list and are able to let go, think differently and more energised with strategies and learning which you can incorporate into your day-to-day. Maybe this is the change in pace and direction you needed. Some of your 'to do list' might no longer be relevant. The coaching will be ‘light’ and we will encourage you to have one or two things to experiment with at the end. You might find the network the biggest takeaway or the surroundings and things or feelings which surprised you. We are intentionally incorporating our surroundings into the coaching process. We might notice what is happening around us, what catches our attention or how the environment we are walking in and through can help us think differently. Research into nature connectedness also suggests that it isn't simply spending time outdoors that matters, but how we notice and engage with the natural environment around us.

2. Do you need to be physically fit to participate?

No, not at all. The sessions are about connecting more with yourself, with others and with the natural environment, not about a fitness test. We understand that some health conditions are hidden and may fluctuate and are open to hearing what you may need. The walk is designed to give space to pause and reflect. We will be asking you for any concerns in a check-in form before you arrive. We are happy to adapt to the group’s energy and needs..

3. What happens if the weather is bad?

Safety is always our number one priority and we are experienced at holding events outdoors. In the UK the weather can be unpredictable and we're certainly not put off by a bit of rain! We keep an eye on weather forecasts and local conditions and take into account the experience and capabilities of the group when leading the session. We encourage you to join a WhatsApp group for last minute updates including around weather conditions.

4. Is Elevate Netwalking® suitable for people who don't enjoy traditional networking?

Absolutely. In fact, we often describe Elevate Netwalking® as networking for people who don't like networking!

There are no elevator pitches or expectations to swap business cards. Instead, we create the conditions for people to connect through walking side by side, shared coaching conversations and time outdoors. Meeting people who often share similar values and outlooks creates a natural foundation for genuine relationships, which can also lead to recommendations, collaborations and professional opportunities.

5. Do I have to talk about my business during the walk?

No. We agree for the conversations to be confidential within the group. The walks are designed to meet you where you're at. Whatever feels right for you to share during the walk is what we welcome you to bring to the conversation.

6. Can I come to an Elevate Netwalking® event on my own?

Absolutely. Many people do.

We know that turning up to an event where you don't know anyone can feel daunting, so the walks are intentionally designed to make connecting with others easier. We pair people up to walk together and provide coaching questions to start the conversations, so you don't need to worry about finding someone to talk to or making small talk with a room full of strangers.