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Jillian Godsil's life took a dramatic turn during the financial crash. She lost her husband, her home and her business. This personal crisis, however, ignited a spark in her that led her to become an "accidental activist". She challenged the Irish government in the High Court over laws that prevented bankrupt individuals from running for public office. Godsil's efforts resulted in a change in the law, which allowed her to campaign as an independent candidate in the 2014 European Parliamentary election.
Godsil's foray into the world of technology began when she discovered blockchain. Recognizing the transformative potential of this technology, she founded Blockleaders in 2018. At its core, Blockleaders aimed to humanize the tech revolution by highlighting the individuals behind the innovations. Godsil's platform has featured interviews with prominent figures in the Web3 space such as Don Tapscott, John McAfee and Andreas Antonopoulos. Blockleaders also provides a platform for rising stars in the industry, showcasing their work and ideas.
Godsil aimed to set Blockleaders apart from other tech publications by providing professional and insightful journalism, a quality she believed was lacking in the field. Under her leadership as Editor-in-Chief, Blockleaders quickly gained recognition for its rigorous journalistic standards. The publication's commitment to quality and insightful reporting has helped to establish it as a trusted source of information in the Web3 community.
Godsil's influence extends beyond the digital pages of Blockleaders. A passionate advocate for women in blockchain, she has also dedicated her time to tackling homelessness and advocating for income equality. Her work has earned her international recognition, including being named one of the UK's Most Influential Women in Tech by Computer Weekly and winning Blockchain Journalist of the Year by Uptrennds. Godsil views being featured in a Blockleaders interview as a significant mark of distinction, highlighting the platform's growing influence.
Despite her successes, Godsil's journey has been fraught with challenges. Nevertheless, she remains undeterred, drawing inspiration from her mother's mantra: "ever upwards and ever onwards, maybe sideways but never backwards". This philosophy of resilience is at the heart of both Blockleaders and Godsil's work.
Looking towards the future, Godsil, along with her partner, journalist Lisa Gibbons, envisions elevating Blockleaders to the status of the "Vanity Fair" of Web3 publications. They aim to marry insightful reporting with compelling storytelling, solidifying Blockleaders' place as a leading platform in the rapidly evolving world of Web3.
Godsil's story is an inspiration to anyone navigating challenging times. Her journey from financial ruin to becoming a blockchain pioneer demonstrates the power of reinvention and the potential for technology to drive positive change. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to persevere, reminding them that even small steps can lead to significant progress. In Godsil's own words, “Just keep putting one foot in front of the other. When you stop (momentarily) and look back, you’ll be amazed at how far you have come." Godsil's story serves as a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, the human spirit, coupled with technological innovation, has the power to create a brighter future.
"The Cougar Diaries Trilogy" by Jillian Godsil, also known as Aoife Brennan, is a bold and captivating exploration of modern relationships, self-discovery, and empowerment. Godsil skillfully captures the emotional depth and evolving dynamics of relationships. The book resonates with readers by addressing universal themes of love, self-acceptance, and the courage to defy societal expectations. Her narrative is both candid and humorous, providing a fresh perspective on the trials and triumphs of reclaiming one’s identity and desires.
Website: https://www.blockleaders.io/