Explore every episode of the podcast My Duvet Flip by Jackson Parsons

About Niel Bornman

Niel Bornman is CEO of Publicis Connected Media UK, leading more than 4,000 people across the business. With almost three decades of experience, he is passionate about growth, leadership, adaptability and helping the next generation build careers in marketing.

About Publicis Connected Media UK

Publicis Connected Media UK brings together media, data, technology and marketing expertise to help brands connect with people and grow. Its teams work across areas including media investment, creators, search, AI and emerging technology.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

1:51 Meet Niel Bornman

2:17 Adapting to British Workplace Culture

3:55 Why Feedback Is Essential for Career Growth

5:16 Every Meeting Is an Interview for Your Next Job

5:42 Building Your Personal Brand and Reputation

6:34 What Makes a Great Leader?

7:34 Why Rapid Adaptability Is a Future Skill

8:01 How to Embrace Change and Develop a Growth Mindset

9:20 What Niel Learnt From Two Very Different Bosses

10:42 The Career Mistake Niel Never Made Again

11:36 Niel’s Leadership Philosophy in Three Words

12:42 Where Is the Marketing Industry Going?

15:15 How to Start a Career in Marketing With No Experience

17:41 Why Customer Service Experience Can Help Your Career

18:41 Why Teamwork Will Set You Apart

19:11 What Niel Actually Does as a CEO

21:58 The Invisible Secret Behind Niel’s Success

22:24 Why People Have to Choose to Follow You

23:52 What Gets Niel Out of Bed Every Morning

25:16 Final Thoughts

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Roberta Cretella is Director of Data and AI Solutions at Compare the Market, where she leads the organisation’s data and AI strategy. Passionate about creating meaningful impact, she champions responsible AI, diversity in technology and building a career on your own terms.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:43 Meet Roberta Cretella

2:20 Will AI Take Our Jobs?

3:45 Building Resilience When Life Does Not Go to Plan

5:00 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt

6:34 Why Roberta Chose to Create Her Own Path

7:04 Breaking Expectations and Building a Different Future

9:03 Where Roberta’s Drive and Determination Come From

10:06 Why Young People Should Aim High

11:22 Meet Roberta Properly

11:43 Roberta’s First Year at Compare the Market

13:12 How to Become a Better Presenter

14:46 The Hardest Moments of Roberta’s Career

17:12 Why Asking for Support Matters

17:43 Being Bold and Brave Enough to Be Yourself

18:49 Why Diversity Is Essential for Responsible AI

21:15 Why Join Compare the Market?

22:34 Roberta’s Duvet Flip: Making an Impact

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

About Justin Pegg

Justin Pegg is the CEO of DPD UK, having built an extraordinary career with the business spanning more than 36 years. From working night shifts to leading the organisation, Justin is passionate about developing people, putting family first and creating a culture where everyone feels valued.

Check out DPD UK Careers below:

https://jobs.dpd.co.uk/

https://drivers.dpd.co.uk/

About DPD UK

DPD UK is one of the UK’s leading parcel delivery businesses, helping deliver millions of parcels for customers across the country. Led by Justin Pegg, the wider UK business includes DPD UK, CitySprint and DPD Ireland, with revenues exceeding £2.5 billion.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

1:30 Justin’s 36-Year Journey at DPD UK

2:46 Growing Up with Very Little in Birmingham

3:06 Why Young People Need to Look Beyond Their Screens

4:42 Why Justin Wanted to Inspire the Next Generation

5:15 Becoming a Manager at Just 22

6:04 Leaving School at 15 and Earning £1 an Hour

7:23 The Bike Ride That Started Justin’s Career

7:41 Working Night Shifts for 25 Years

8:35 Why Working Smarter Beats Working Harder

9:21 Why Justin Puts Family Before Work

10:35 Justin’s Greatest Achievement as a CEO

11:06 Treat People Like Adults and They’ll Work Like Adults

12:17 The Hardest Chapter of Justin’s Career

13:43 Why Justin Never Hires People Like Himself

14:07 Why Making Mistakes Can Make You Successful

16:03 The Leadership Advice Jack Never Forgot

16:41 Why Frontline Workers Are the Real Heroes

17:51 Justin’s Invisible Secret to Success

19:14 The Power of a Handwritten Note

20:16 How to Make Your People Feel Valued

20:46 What Gets Justin Out of Bed Every Morning

21:20 How to Train Your Mind to Be More Positive

22:04 Justin Discovers Drake

22:12 Final Thoughts

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Guest Bio

Robert Berkeley is the CEO of EKCS Group and a seasoned entrepreneur with decades of experience building and leading businesses across technology, creative production and marketing operations. His career has been driven by curiosity, calculated risk-taking and a belief that the best opportunities often come from taking the less obvious path.

EKCS Group Bio

EKCS Group is a global provider of outsourced, technology-enabled creative production and marketing support services. With more than 500 people worldwide, the business supports brands, agencies and creative teams around the clock.

Chapters

0:00 Robert Berkeley on 20+ Years in Business

1:25 Meet Robert Berkeley, CEO of EKCS

1:55 Robert’s First Job and Early Career

3:42 Why Robert Chose the Lower-Paying Job

6:07 How a Credit Card Bill Sparked His Entrepreneurial Journey

9:24 Turning Curiosity Into Career Opportunities

11:07 Taking the Leap and Starting a Business

12:30 Robert’s Advice for Becoming a Better Networker

15:09 Why Curiosity Is Your Networking Superpower

16:26 Inside EKCS and What the Business Does

18:27 What 20+ Years in Business Taught Robert

18:44 Why Entrepreneurs Shouldn’t Chase the Money

20:45 Robert’s Biggest Lesson About Leadership

21:18 The Invisible Secret Behind Robert’s Success

22:26 What Gets Robert Out of Bed Every Morning

23:37 Robert’s Final Advice for Success

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

About Suzanne

Suzanne Speak is Managing Director for UK & Ireland at Radisson Hotel Group, with 30 years of experience in hospitality. From her first job at 13 to leading across the UK and Ireland, Suzanne is passionate about people, networking and creating career opportunities for the next generation.

Radisson Hotel Group

Radisson Hotel Group is an international hospitality group with hotels and career opportunities across a wide range of disciplines, from hotel operations to finance, legal, marketing and sustainability. The group focuses on memorable guest experiences while developing talent and creating opportunities for people to build long-term careers in hospitality.

Chapters

0:00 Meet Suzanne Speak

1:13 Suzanne’s Journey into Hospitality

1:46 Building a Strong Work Ethic from a Young Age

3:54 Why Networking Is Essential for Career Success

5:18 The Importance of Being Authentic

7:08 The Sacrifices Behind a 30 Year Hospitality Career

9:10 Why Hotels Offer More Careers Than You Think

10:37 Suzanne’s Journey to Radisson Hotel Group

12:13 What Does a Managing Director Actually Do?

13:08 Building a People First Company Culture

13:54 Why Suzanne Became a Managing Director

14:31 Learning from Difficult Leaders and Experiences

15:16 Suzanne’s Advice for Young People Looking for Work

16:49 What Suzanne Would Tell Her 18 Year Old Self

17:33 The One Skill Suzanne Would Never Give Up

18:27 Suzanne’s Duvet Flip

19:32 The Quote That Perfectly Defines Suzanne’s Career

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Julia Klein is Director of Performance Marketing at Compare the Market, where she leads the teams responsible for driving digital customer acquisition across paid media, search, SEO and content. Originally from Germany, Julia has built an international career by combining analytical thinking, curiosity and people-first leadership.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:25 Meeting Julia Klein

2:00 Julia's first job in Germany

2:52 The communication skills every career needs

5:13 Why every job teaches transferable skills

6:39 Moving from Germany to the USA and Scotland

8:00 Changing career plans from law to business

10:24 Why Julia chose marketing over consultancy

11:44 The confidence to apply before you're ready

12:48 Falling in love with performance marketing

13:26 What paid search actually is

14:06 Do you need to be good at maths?

15:13 Career advice for aspiring marketers

15:50 What is a T-shaped marketer?

17:13 How AI is changing marketing forever

19:47 Becoming Director of Performance Marketing

20:20 Leading high-performing marketing teams

22:19 Win or bin: Julia's leadership mindset

22:33 Why Compare the Market stands out

23:49 Julia's Duvet Flip

24:27 Final thoughts

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

About Kate

Kate Hayward is the UK Managing Director at Xero, where she leads the company's mission to empower small businesses, accountants and bookkeepers through technology. Passionate about entrepreneurship, financial education and inclusive leadership, Kate is a strong advocate for helping people realise their potential regardless of their background.

About Xero

Xero is a global cloud accounting platform that helps small businesses, accountants and bookkeepers manage their finances more efficiently. Its software and educational resources are designed to simplify business finances and support sustainable growth.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

1:15 Kate's first job and the power of asking for feedback

2:42 Why you should build your own network

3:24 How to build a network when you know nobody

4:27 What "putting into your network" really means

5:34 How to demonstrate effort on your CV

6:25 Growing up with a self-employed dad

7:02 Perfectionism, resilience and believing anything is possible

8:46 Introversion, imposter syndrome and earning your place

9:57 Kate's journey to becoming UK Managing Director at Xero

11:15 Why you can't do it all and why that's okay

12:33 Dyslexia, AI and turning challenges into strengths

14:09 Why small businesses are struggling right now

15:49 Who teaches you to be an entrepreneur?

17:06 The one financial skill every business owner needs

18:02 What Xero does and supporting 1.3 million UK businesses

20:06 Breaking down barriers to entrepreneurship

20:49 Would Kate ever become an entrepreneur?

21:39 The quote that defines Kate's leadership

23:29 Kate's invisible success

24:13 Kate's Duvet Flip

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Jeff Cleaven is a Field Service Technician at Virgin Media O2, helping customers across London stay connected by installing, maintaining and troubleshooting broadband, TV and phone services. Originally from South Africa, Jeff brings a people-first approach, a passion for learning and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Episode Partner

This episode is part of My Duvet Flip's Choose Customer series, produced in partnership with Virgin Media O2. Virgin Media O2 is one of the UK's largest and most recognisable connectivity brands, delivering mobile, broadband, TV and business services to millions of customers across the country.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

1:28 Meeting Jeff Cleaven

2:48 Jeff's first job teaching children to swim

4:22 Why Jeff walked away from becoming a pilot

5:20 Changing careers and taking risks

6:05 Jeff's advice for anyone starting their career

7:06 Finding mentors by showing up

8:19 A day in the life of a Virgin Media O2 Field Service Technician

9:34 Installing broadband and solving customer problems

11:04 How every career taught Jeff something valuable

12:13 Why customer experience matters more than ever

13:46 How to deliver exceptional customer service

16:32 The technical skills behind the role

17:30 Dealing with difficult customers

20:12 Lessons from protecting wildlife in South Africa

22:10 Becoming a Field Service Technician at Virgin Media O2

23:01 Career opportunities and apprenticeships at Virgin Media O2

25:01 Learning, training and support at Virgin Media O2

26:27 Jeff's Duvet Flip

27:42 Final thoughts

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counselling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support. Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Dominic Burrows is an Executive Team Manager at Virgin Media O2, leading teams that resolve complex customer issues while developing future leaders. He is passionate about customer trust, resilience and helping people grow through great leadership.

Episode Partner

This episode is part of My Duvet Flip's Choose Customer series, produced in partnership with Virgin Media O2. Virgin Media O2 is one of the UK's largest and most recognisable connectivity brands, delivering mobile, broadband, TV and business services to millions of customers across the country.

Chapters

0:00 Why I Wanted to Be a Millionaire

1:29 Introduction

2:37 Studying Marketing and Landing My First Sales Job

4:22 Why Money Isn't Everything

5:08 The #1 Skill You Need in Sales

5:59 Starting at Virgin Media O2

6:42 Why Customer Service Builds Great Leaders

7:59 What It's Really Like Managing Customer Complaints

9:03 How to Build Customer Trust

9:51 How I Got Promoted to Team Manager

10:49 What Makes a Great Leader?

11:50 The Book Challenge

12:19 Going Above and Beyond for Customers

14:35 Skills You Need to Succeed in Customer Service

15:22 Why I Chose a Career in Telecoms

16:12 Why Telecoms Is a Great Industry to Join

17:20 What Customer Trust Really Means

18:01 Helping Hundreds of Customers

19:56 Staying Positive When Every Day Brings Complaints

20:43 Why Every Complaint Is an Opportunity

21:05 My Duvet Flip

22:02 Final Thoughts

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counselling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support. Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Samreen Khan is a Store Leader at Virgin Media O2 with over seven years' experience in telecommunications, progressing from sales into leadership. She is passionate about developing people, coaching high-performing teams, and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Episode Partner:

This episode is part of My Duvet Flip's Choose Customer series, produced in partnership with Virgin Media O2. Virgin Media O2 is one of the UK's largest and most recognisable connectivity brands, delivering mobile, broadband, TV and business services to millions of customers across the country.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

2:42 Meet Samreen: From Student to Store Leader

3:22 Starting Work at 18 and Finding an Unexpected Career

4:32 Why Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone Matters

5:59 Learning to Deal with Customers Every Day

7:15 Building Resilience While Living with Anxiety

8:28 Why Great Customer Service Is About How People Feel

9:50 Falling Into a Career in Telecoms

11:04 The Skills Every Young Person Needs at Work

12:15 The Family Story That Built Samreen's Drive

13:28 The Book That Changed Samreen's Perspective on Failure

14:47 Turning the Region's Worst Store into One of the Best

16:18 Leading a Team Through Consistency

18:17 Why Caring About People Makes You a Better Leader

20:10 Why Samreen Loves Working at Virgin Media O2

21:11 Helping Young Team Members Grow

22:11 Career Progression at Virgin Media O2

23:13 Samreen's Duvet Flip

24:25 Final Thoughts

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counselling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support. Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

About Guest

Sam Collier is the Chief Operating Officer at Achieve Together, one of the UK's leading social care providers. Having started his career as a support worker, Sam has spent more than 25 years championing high-quality care and creating opportunities for people to live their best lives.

About Achieve Together

Achieve Together supports people with learning disabilities, autism, mental health needs, and complex health conditions to live independently in their communities. With more than 6,500 employees across England and Wales, the organisation helps people lead ordinary lives in ordinary homes with the right support.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

2:06 Sam's First Jobs and Early Lessons

3:09 Why Social Care Became Sam's Purpose

5:32 Sam's Advice for Anyone Considering Social Care

7:46 How to Be Your Authentic Self in Interviews

9:42 How Values Evolve Throughout Your Career

11:02 Why Social Care Is a Professional Industry

12:42 Young Sam Never Planned to Become a COO

15:07 Inside Achieve Together and Its Mission

17:07 What a Group COO Actually Does

18:26 How Sam Manages 6,500 Employees

19:34 The Skills Needed to Become a COO

21:45 What Sam Loves Most About Leadership

23:19 Opportunities Across Achieve Together

24:53 Apprenticeships and Career Progression

26:35 How AI Is Transforming Social Care

28:22 Sam's Invisible Success: Never Give Up

29:46 Sam's Duvet Flip

Episode Partners:

Compare the Market Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK's most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they're on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Josephine Parmee is Head of Social Equity at Virgin Media O2, where she leads initiatives focused on digital inclusion, online safety, and helping people thrive in an increasingly connected world. With a background spanning human rights, consumer rights, and social impact, she is passionate about using business as a force for positive societal change.

Episode Partner

This episode is part of My Duvet Flip's Choose Customer series, produced in partnership with Virgin Media O2. Virgin Media O2 is one of the UK's largest and most recognisable connectivity brands, delivering mobile, broadband, TV and business services to millions of customers across the country.

Chapters

0:00 Introduction

2:04 Meeting Josephine Parmee

3:18 How Josephine's Career Started

4:50 Advice for Speaking to Senior Leaders

5:58 14 Years in Human Rights and Social Impact

7:28 Adapting to New Organisations and Roles

9:02 The Skills Needed to Influence Change

11:43 What Does a Head of Social Equity Do?

13:07 Why Digital Inclusion Matters

13:44 The Reality of Digital Poverty in the UK

15:13 Tackling Digital Wellbeing and Online Safety

16:25 How Virgin Media O2 Supports Digital Wellbeing

19:31 Connecting People to What Matters Most

21:38 Why Josephine Chose Telecoms

22:20 The Side Project That Changed Her Career

23:55 Why You Should Create Opportunities Outside Work

25:31 Finding a Career in Digital Consumer Rights

26:29 What Virgin Media O2 Taught Josephine About Trust

27:30 Why Career Paths Are Never Linear

28:04 The Power of Following Your Passion

29:22 Josephine's Duvet Flip

30:40 Final Reflections on Digital Inclusion

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counselling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support. Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Rachel Riley is an English television presenter. She co-presents the Channel 4 daytime puzzle show Countdown and its comedy spin-off 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown. She is a mathematics graduate.

Episode Timestamps:

00:00 The #1 Predictor of Success

00:25 Meet Rachel Riley

02:11 Rachel's First Job Paid £25 a Week

04:14 Why Rachel Has Never Been Able to Waste Money

05:01 From Oxford Maths to the Financial Crisis

06:39 How Rachel Accidentally Got the Countdown Job

08:23 Rachel Ate One Shreddy Before Her Interview

09:54 The Call That Changed Rachel's Life

11:44 How Rachel Spots Good People

13:26 How Rachel Stayed Grounded on TV

15:07 Why Rachel Believes Everyone Has Imposter Syndrome

16:37 The CBT Lesson That Changed Rachel's Life

18:16 What 250 Stages Taught Rachel About Confidence

19:51 Why Rachel Thinks Learning to Fail Matters

21:05 Rachel's Obsession With Puzzles & Numbers

22:12 Why Rachel Wants More Girls in STEM

23:08 Why Rachel Believes Numeracy Changes Lives

25:59 Encouragement Comes Before Confidence

27:01 Rachel's Growth Mindset Formula

28:43 Rachel on AI, Technology & Future Careers

29:06 The Film Rachel Thinks Every Young Girl Should Watch

31:06 The Teacher Who Believed in Rachel

32:43 Why Rachel Supports National Numeracy

34:50 Rachel's Best Money Advice

37:03 Why Schools Don't Teach Real-Life Money Skills

38:49 Rachel's Invisible Success Habit

39:38 Rachel's Take on "Fake It Till You Make It"

41:16 What Gets Rachel Out of Bed Every Morning

42:15 Final Thoughts

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Alice Peacock is a Problem Manager at Virgin Media O2, responsible for investigating major network outages and putting permanent fixes in place for millions of customers across mobile, fibre, TV and business services. She started her career at 16 flipping burgers at McDonald's on Streatham High Street. After nearly two decades away from the workplace to raise her family, she returned through O2's Career Returners Programme — and hasn't looked back. Eight years in, her colleagues assume she's always been part of the furniture.

Virgin Media O2 is one of the UK's largest and most recognisable connectivity brands, delivering mobile, broadband, TV and business services to millions of customers across the country.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction & format explainer

01:57 Meet Alice

03:37 First job: McDonald's at 16

05:56 What young people should know about starting work

06:50 Alice's career break and the M&S chapter

07:52 How to get back into the job market

09:14 The O2 Career Returners Programme

10:17 Transferable skills from a career break

11:08 "Mum, I earn more than you" — the moment that changed everything

12:05 Imposter syndrome in tech

14:32 Why feedback matters

16:09 17 years away — and back like she never left

17:00 Getting paid to eat food and drink Prosecco

17:52 Why Alice chose Virgin Media O2

19:41 What a Problem Manager actually does day-to-day

21:08 When McDonald's is your client

23:18 Why customer trust is everything

23:45 Alice's Duvet Flip moment

Episode Partners

This episode is part of My Duvet Flip's Choose Customer series, produced in partnership with Virgin Media O2.

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counselling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support. Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here:

https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here:

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

About Charlotte

Charlotte Low is the COO at Colosseum Dental UK, overseeing 80 dental practices across England and Wales. She started work at 15, skipped university, qualified as an accountant, and spent years across multiple industries before finding her home in dentistry. She now sits on the executive board and has led a culture transformation that cut staff turnover from 55% down dramatically by putting people first.

About Colosseum Dental

Colosseum Dental is Europe's largest dental group with over 630 practices across the continent and 80 in the UK. They offer career pathways from dental nursing apprenticeships through to clinical and operational leadership, and are passionate about making dentistry accessible for people from all backgrounds.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:30 Charlotte's first job at 15 and working across generations

08:00 Why she chose not to go to university

14:00 Her first office job and what it taught her about leadership

22:00 Finding her way into the dental industry

30:00 What the COO role actually involves day to day

38:00 How Colosseum Dental cut 55% staff turnover

46:00 Partnering with Great Place to Work

54:00 Apprenticeships and careers in dentistry

01:02:00 Advice for young people starting out

Episode Partners:

Compare the Market Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK's most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they're on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you're struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you're struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Prashant Narula is Managing Director of Ciklum UK, where he helps organisations use technology and AI to build better products and experiences. He is passionate about leadership, resilience and helping people grow through honest, values-led careers.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

0:19 Why success is about what you give, not what you get

1:00 The true traits of a great leader

1:55 Meeting Prashant Narula

2:14 Prashant’s first job on the factory floor

3:09 The importance of a great manager early in your career

4:31 How honesty landed Prashant his first role in tech

5:28 Why honesty, resilience and reliability matter most

7:21 Why resilience is more important than ever today

8:41 Build a multi-skilled support network

10:08 How to network by giving value first

11:24 From beginner to leadership roles in hypergrowth companies

12:30 Leading teams through tough times

13:04 The leadership principles that actually work

14:48 Enabling teams vs micromanaging

15:02 Can everyone become a leader?

16:21 Career advice that changed everything

17:02 Make your work visible to leadership

18:52 When careers feel messy and chaotic

19:42 Why chaos early in your career is a good thing

20:22 Lessons in resilience from Ukrainian teams

22:51 The importance of understanding different cultures

24:05 Why learning never stops

25:02 The power of 30 minutes of daily learning

27:30 Why you shouldn’t compare your career to others

27:39 Inside Ciklum and what they do

31:01 The risks and opportunities of AI

32:09 Why now is the best time to join Ciklum

33:29 The invisible habits behind success

34:22 Stop worrying about what others think

36:23 Final thoughts

36:47 Prashant’s duvet flip

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Alan Vallance is Chief Executive of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), a role he took up in April 2024. He is an ICAEW Chartered Accountant and an experienced leader of major professional bodies, having previously led the Chartered Insurance Institute, the Royal Institute of British Architects and held senior roles at the Law Society.

Episode Chapters:

0:00 Introduction

0:23 Meet Alan Vallance, CEO of ICAEW

1:03 The Power of Networking in Your Career

1:18 Why Networking Is Non-Negotiable

1:22 What Gets Alan Out of Bed (His Duvet Flip)

1:56 First Jobs and Early Career Lessons

3:08 The Importance of Teamwork Early On

3:46 Passion, Cars and Career Direction

5:07 Rejection vs Redirection

6:28 Why Getting a Job Is a Full-Time Job

7:02 Why Personalised Applications Matter

8:00 How to Be Authentic in Interviews

9:25 Biggest Job Application Mistakes

10:36 The Reality of Today’s Job Market

11:41 60,000 Applicants for 2,000 Jobs

12:25 Why You Shouldn’t Apply for Too Many Jobs

13:12 Lessons from EY and Becoming an Accountant

14:46 Accountancy vs AI: Is It Future Proof?

16:24 How AI Is Changing the Profession

18:21 Why Accountancy Is Still a Great Career

20:10 Moving to Australia and Global Opportunities

22:49 Leadership, Crisis and the Weather Bureau

24:23 The Power of Your Network

26:29 How to Grow Your Career the Right Way

27:54 What ICAEW Does and Why It Matters

30:22 Building Careers and Changing Lives

32:18 Alan’s Duvet Flip

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Andrew Hawkins is Technology Director at Compare the Market, where he focuses on building world-class engineering capability and helping teams embrace AI-led transformation. He is known for his thoughtful, people-first approach to leadership, with a strong emphasis on curiosity, impact and continuous learning.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:22 Andrew’s first job and early career lessons

2:14 Taking risks and stepping into the unknown

3:40 The failure that changed Andrew’s career

4:39 Failure is framing: a powerful mindset shift

5:34 Using failure to build resilience and confidence

6:06 Curiosity, open-mindedness and career growth

7:22 How to become more curious in your career

8:17 Dropping fear and leaning into new opportunities

9:20 Why AI feels like the early internet

10:04 How to think about AI in business and problem-solving

11:02 Why AI won’t replace engineers

12:27 Andrew’s non-linear career journey

13:09 Do what makes you happy and plays to your strengths

14:11 Why traditional career advice is broken

15:03 Transferable skills from unexpected jobs

15:37 Why having fun at work matters

16:31 Handling periods when you don’t enjoy your job

17:14 Self-awareness and taking responsibility for change

18:10 When to adapt vs when to move on

19:05 How Andrew joined Compare the Market

20:07 The role of AI in business transformation

21:04 Why company values matter when choosing a job

22:46 Top interview tips to stand out

24:07 Building rapport and being yourself in interviews

26:15 The best question to ask in a tech interview

27:34 How companies should approach AI transformation

29:20 Becoming a world-class engineering organisation

30:19 Why now is the most exciting time in tech

31:38 Lessons from the early internet boom

32:32 Will AI replace human conversations?

32:50 What keeps Andrew motivated at Compare the Market

34:11 Why technology is all about people

34:44 The best career advice Andrew follows

36:12 Andrew’s duvet flip: making an impact every day

37:05 Final thoughts and reflections

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:Sharon Dockerty is the Chief People and Places Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, leading people strategy, workplace experience, and culture across a workforce of around 80,000 colleagues. She’s built her career across major organisations including Heathrow and Vodafone, with a leadership style grounded in resilience, straight talking, and backing young people to thrive.Episode Chapters:0:00 Introduction1:18 What Gets You Out of Bed in the Morning2:07 Sharon’s First Job Selling Flowers at 103:24 Sharon’s Journey from Humble Beginnings3:49 The Four Chapters of Sharon’s Career5:05 Why Career Paths Are Rarely Planned6:39 Learning to Work Hard and Create Opportunity7:48 Advice for People in Career Chapter One8:13 How to Know if You’re Working with the Right People9:07 Choosing Positive People in Your Life11:41 What Sharon Would Do Differently Early in Her Career13:12 Building Heathrow Terminal 513:52 What It Means When Leaders Take a Risk on You15:10 Changing Safety Culture in Construction17:38 Lessons from Lifelong Learning19:31 Leading Through Crisis at Heathrow21:29 The Leadership Lesson That Changed Everything22:38 Handling Pressure and Protecting Your Team24:21 Are Young People Less Resilient Today26:12 Inside the Role of Chief People and Places Officer27:30 Leading 80,000 People at Lloyds Banking Group28:32 How Leaders Know if Culture Is Working29:37 From Leaving Home Young to Banking Leadership31:02 Why Apprenticeships Matter32:36 Apprenticeship Opportunities at Lloyds33:58 Why Tech and Data Are the Future34:27 Why Lloyds Banking Group Matters to the UK36:31 Helping Britain Prosper37:20 Advice for Young People About Money37:45 The Power of Saving Early41:51 Sharon’s Duvet FlipEpisode Partners:📊 Compare the MarketDiscover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.https://bit.ly/4i53SvjDisclaimer:The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-adviceIf you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Meet Lloyd Mann, VP of Culinary and Global Executive Chef at Sodexo, sharing his career journey and what get's him to flip the duvet in the morning, here on My Duvet Flip!

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Ryan Harvey is Head of AI Engineering at Compare the Market, where he builds teams and capabilities to apply AI in ways that accelerate delivery and increase the impact engineers can have. He’s passionate about mentoring, practical problem-solving, and helping the next generation thrive as the world of work rapidly changes.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:27 From a Chip Shop in Cyprus to Tech Support

3:07 Automating the Job: Learning to Work Smarter

5:16 Where Ryan’s Love for Tech Began

8:27 What Makes a Great Software Engineer?

11:45 Learning the Hard Way: Early Career Mistakes

14:06 Cheers and Chores in Engineering

16:54 Startup Life vs Corporate Engineering

19:05 The Pressure of Mission-Critical Software

20:20 Why Compare the Market?

22:09 How to Stand Out in an Engineering Interview

24:04 The Power of Mentors (Inside and Outside Tech)

30:12 The Best Career Advice: Seek Forgiveness, Not Permission

32:23 The Future of Engineering in the AI Era

34:52 AI Won’t Replace Engineers – It Will Elevate Them

37:48 Are We Underestimating Junior Engineers?

41:46 How to Break into Software Engineering Today

43:43 What Gets Ryan Out of Bed in the Morning

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Sam Walley

Sam is a Commercial Graduate at Compare the Market, currently rotating through teams as part of the company’s graduate scheme. He’s passionate about taking opportunities outside his comfort zone and building a successful career in the commercial world.

Kelly Howes

Kelly is a Software Engineer Apprentice at Compare the Market, having transitioned into tech through coding bootcamps and hands-on learning. She’s passionate about inclusive workplaces, lifelong learning, and building software that makes a real impact.

George Owens

George is a Risk and Compliance Apprentice at Compare the Market, where he works across the business supporting governance, risk, and regulatory understanding. He enjoys the variety of the role and developing confidence by getting involved from day one.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Meet the apprentices and graduates at Compare the Market

0:28 First impressions of the interview process

1:27 Advice for young people applying for apprenticeships and grad roles

1:53 Welcome to My Duvet Flip with Sam, Kelly and George

2:06 Sam’s background and education journey

2:48 Stepping outside your comfort zone at university

3:38 Growing up on a dairy farm and learning hard work

4:29 Discovering commercial work and internships

5:43 Finding the Compare the Market graduate scheme

6:26 What the commercial graduate scheme looks like

6:38 Life two months into the grad role

7:23 Preparing properly for interviews

7:33 Skills learned so far and financial confidence

8:15 Sam’s first week at Compare the Market

8:52 Company-wide events and culture

11:42 Kelly’s non-traditional career journey

13:12 Running a dance school and learning leadership

14:47 Discovering coding during the pandemic

15:53 Applying for the software engineering apprenticeship

16:56 Feeling welcomed during the interview process

17:26 What a software engineer apprenticeship involves

18:46 Learning while working in a real tech team

19:23 Why apprenticeships are a powerful route into tech

19:39 Supportive and inclusive culture at Compare the Market

20:18 Kelly’s advice for future apprentices

21:04 George’s university experience and career thinking

22:14 Adapting to change during COVID

22:36 Finding the risk and compliance apprenticeship

23:16 What risk and compliance work really looks like

24:16 Surprises in the workplace and flat hierarchy

25:26 Learning by being trusted early

26:19 Personal development and the Talent Academy

26:44 Advice for anyone applying to Compare the Market

27:36 What gets Sam, Kelly and George out of bed each morning

28:34 Final thanks and closing thoughts

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Niamh Savill is a Senior Solutions Architect at Halo CRM, where she works across consultancy, product development, and customer solutions. With a background in languages, she brings a people-first, curious approach to solving complex technical challenges.

Episode Timestamps

0:00 Introduction

0:33 Meet Niamh and Why She Said Yes to My Duvet Flip

1:31 Niamh’s First Jobs and Early Lessons About Work

2:42 What Early Roles Teach You About Communication

3:10 How to Communicate Better at Work

3:52 Finding Halo Through Indeed

4:33 From Language Degree to a Tech Career

5:01 Niamh’s Journey at Halo CRM

6:49 Building Confidence and Putting Your Hand Up

7:47 Learning on the Job and Asking Questions

8:02 Niamh’s Best Day at Halo and Travelling for Work

8:58 What Halo Taught Niamh About Being Yourself

9:42 How Niamh Describes Halo’s Culture

10:34 Being a Woman in Tech

11:22 Advice to Young Women Applying for Tech Roles

12:08 Do You Need a Tech Background to Work in Tech?

12:58 A Day in the Life of a Senior Solutions Architect

13:51 Why Relationships Matter at Work

14:31 Dealing With Imposter Syndrome

15:36 Finding Best Friends at Work

16:27 Paul’s Leadership Style at Halo

17:44 Can Ambition and Drive Be Trained?

18:53 Niamh’s Advice to Anyone Applying to Halo

19:12 What Gets Niamh Out of Bed in the Morning

Episode Partners

Check out the latest from Halo:

https://halograduates.com and https://www.instagram.com/halonextgen/

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Sam Schlimper is Managing Director at Randstad Enterprise, where she works with global organisations to redesign work, unlock human potential, and build future-ready talent strategies. With deep experience across recruitment, financial services, and advisory, Sam is passionate about creating meaningful work that energises people and organisations.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:23 What gives you energy and what drains it at work

1:17 Sam’s duvet flip and why self-reflection matters

2:09 First job lessons and learning what you don’t want to do

3:04 Why trying things is essential early in your career

3:39 How Sam fell into recruitment and talent without a plan

4:12 Confidence, training, and learning on the job

4:46 Building confidence in a hybrid and remote world

5:47 Why job descriptions don’t reflect how work really happens

6:33 Do remote workers really miss out on promotions?

7:39 How to know who you are (and why it’s a lifelong job)

8:16 Being good at something that slowly drains you

9:10 Why fun, energy, and people keep you in a job

10:05 What makes a great recruiter today

11:40 How people really get jobs beyond their CV

12:44 Understanding human potential at its core

14:13 Simple ways to identify your own potential

15:36 Are you stuck in the ‘frozen middle’?

16:29 What it feels like when work slowly erodes you

17:36 Mucky ducks and how bad culture spreads

18:57 What to do if you are the mucky duck

20:04 Knowing when it’s time to leave an environment

22:13 Why human connection matters more than ever

23:14 AI, young people, and the future of work

24:45 Why early careers need new, non-traditional routes

25:46 The beehive analogy and problem-solving talent

26:47 Why AI should be treated like a colleague, not a tool

28:37 The danger of cognitively offloading your thinking

30:08 How to work with AI without losing your edge

32:43 Psychological safety and AI adoption at work

35:40 Confidence, power, and who embraces AI first

38:38 Lessons from Sam’s time at Barclays

40:33 What Randstad Enterprise does and why Sam loves her work

43:49 The red folder quick-fire questions

48:24 Sam’s duvet flip and what really gets her out of bed

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Pete Harris is the President at Pipedrive, with a career spanning from auditing at Deloitte to global leadership. Known for his grounded wisdom and purpose-driven mindset, Pete brings clarity and compassion to every room he walks into - or in Pete's case, runs into!

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:55 Meet Pete Harris – President at Pipedrive

3:00 The Flight That Changed Everything

6:20 Why Pete Turned Down Partnership at Deloitte

9:00 Discovering Your Purpose in Life and Work

12:15 Pete’s Hierarchy of Needs

15:10 From Corporate Climb to Courageous Quit

18:00 The Power of Support: Marriage, Mentors & Mindset

21:30 Resigning With Grace and Class

24:00 Pete’s Ironman: Testing Limits and Finding Clarity

28:00 What Endurance Taught Pete About Insecurity and Self

31:10 Talking Money: Value, Confidence & Childhood Habits

35:00 From Seven-Year-Old Saver to Global Leader

38:20 Why Your Job Title Isn’t Who You Are

41:00 What Real Wealth Looks Like (And It’s Not Money)

44:15 Time, Presence, and the 18 Christmas Rule

47:00 Leadership, Listening and Talking Last

50:00 The Power of Diversity and Integrity at Work

53:00 Pete on Taylor Swift, Energy Vampires & the A-Team

56:00 Final Reflections and Pete’s Duvet Flip

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Alex Glover is Managing Director of Programmatic at Brainlabs, where he leads global innovation in data-driven advertising. His passion for programmatic strategy and graduate development is helping shape the next generation of media talent.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:12 Meet Alex Glover, MD of Programmatic at Brainlabs

0:40 The job Alex nearly took (and why he didn’t)

1:48 Discovering advertising through curiosity

3:04 Early experiments with websites and Google Ads

4:16 The career-changing advice Alex got from his dad

5:06 Startup grind: no playbook, just problem solving

6:10 From tiny clients to Mediacom’s biggest accounts

7:33 Why Alex couldn’t stay away from programmatic

8:48 Taking a bet on himself at Brainlabs

10:00 The truth about programmatic advertising

12:05 Advertising’s future: Netflix, Spotify, and beyond

13:42 Inside the Brainlabs grad scheme in Buenos Aires

15:37 How moving to Argentina can kickstart your career

17:23 What makes someone thrive in programmatic?

19:08 Building confidence, then passion

21:07 Jack and Alex on being obsessed with your craft

22:45 Getting promoted: it’s not just about extra projects

24:10 How to stand out in your first job in media

26:04 Why reporting taught Alex the most about marketing

27:18 When Alex felt like a fraud (and what happened next)

29:12 What it’s really like working at Brainlabs

31:20 Why Brainlabs refuses to sell to a holding company

32:46 The culture of innovation and automation at Brainlabs

34:05 How AI is being used by grads at Brainlabs

35:24 “If you do it three times, automate it”

36:48 The one mindset shift every grad needs to hear

38:04 Chapter 1 of Alex’s career: “Working it out”

39:02 Most unexpected lesson from a ‘boring’ task

40:00 When Alex truly felt imposter syndrome

41:12 The job that led to Patagonia

42:00 Jack’s final question: What’s your duvet flip?

43:38 Why achievement, not titles, gets Alex up in the morning

44:30 Final reflections and thank yous

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Donna Whitehead is the Vice Chancellor and CEO of the University of Brighton. A proud working-class leader from Hartlepool, Donna brings a bold, purpose-driven vision to higher education.

Episode Timestamps

0:00 Introduction

1:22 From Council Estate to CEO

2:59 Donna’s First Job: Paper Round Hustle

4:23 Learning Discipline and Drive

6:01 “Shy Bairns Get Nowt”: Grit as a Mindset

7:08 Pride in Her Hartlepool Roots

8:42 Imposter Syndrome and Black Tie Moments

10:53 Getting Sacked and Bouncing Back

12:08 The Life Event That Changed Everything

13:33 Failing College, Then Trying Again

14:59 Studying Law and Seeing a Bigger World

16:33 From No Map to Leading a University

17:44 Why Education Became Her Purpose

19:06 What a University CEO Really Does

20:45 Brighton’s 10-Year Vision: Equity & Enterprise

22:31 A Day in the Life of Donna Whitehead

24:35 What Brighton Has Taught Her About Life

26:02 Never Compromise Your Values

27:07 Deputy CEO vs CEO: The Real Difference

28:31 What Donna Would Study Today

29:40 Why Choose University of Brighton?

30:55 Careers in Education: Donna’s Call to Action

32:07 Quickfire Round: Mascots, Boss Phrases & Icons

34:10 Donna’s Message to Students, CEOs & the World

35:47 Donna’s Duvet Flip – What Gets Her Up

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Andrew Lever is the Co-Founder and CEO of Brand Partnership Group, a leader in brand-focused sales and marketing services. With a career spanning Unilever, Coca-Cola, and Samsung, Andrew brings calm leadership and consistent growth to every organisation he touches.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:41 Why Andrew was one of the show’s first believers

2:03 The power of consistency in careers and partnerships

3:00 Andrew’s first job and how he became a CEO

5:00 From Unilever to Paris — learning fast abroad

7:40 Facing fears: new languages, new countries

10:00 Returning for a dream role at Coca-Cola

12:00 What Coke taught Andrew about human connection

14:00 Brand loyalty and leadership lessons

15:20 How to actually build consistency

17:00 Calm leadership through change and chaos

19:00 Navigating COVID and moving fast as a business

21:00 Transforming Brand Partnership Group from the inside

23:00 Learning from mistakes and knowing when to pivot

25:00 Real partnership vs. transactional relationships

27:00 Andrew’s rule if he was Minister of Partnerships

28:30 What Brand Partnership Group actually does

30:00 How Blue Square supports Samsung, HP & SharkNinja

32:30 Training, retail support, and in-home repair

34:00 Crew Live: From West End to global brand activations

36:00 Rise: Engineering growth with data and insight

37:45 A teaser for the next agency in the group

38:30 Why youth opportunity is at the heart of BPG

40:30 Supporting confidence, skills and mental resilience

42:30 Apprenticeships and building the next generation

44:00 Turning BPG into a talent pipeline for global brands

45:20 Living company values — not just posting them

46:50 The truth about culture and consistency

48:10 Quick-fire: Remarkable notebooks & lion mascots

49:20 The strangest pitch Andrew ever received

50:15 Dreaming up a youth-focused business with Jack

51:00 The motto Andrew would put on a Piccadilly billboard

52:00 The brand Andrew wishes would call tomorrow

53:00 Reflecting on friendship, support, and doing good

54:30 Andrew’s evolved duvet flip: From chasing to creating

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Paula MacKenzie is the CEO of Pizza Express, with a career spanning leadership roles across the food, drink, and hospitality sectors. Known for her drive and authenticity, Paula brings a bold, values-led approach to business and team culture.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:24 Paula’s First Job – Paper Rounds and Earning Freedom

2:23 Young Paula Saves for a Stereo – The Power of Incentives

3:38 What Drives Paula’s Determination?

5:03 What Paula Would Tell Her Younger Self

6:00 Paula on Staying True to Who You Are

7:47 Paula on Boundaries, Values & Handling ‘Darling’ Moments

10:33 From Paper Round to Career Steps – Paula’s Journey Begins

12:04 Why Paula Left Accountancy for Industry

14:46 Paula on Feeling Like an Outsider in Finance

16:05 Lessons from Innocent – How Paula Learned to Break the Rules

18:24 The Show Must Go On – Paula on Doing It Anyway

19:25 Becoming CEO – Paula’s Cross-Functional Climb

22:57 Paula on Imposter Syndrome & Reframing Thoughts

24:56 What Paula’s First Day as CEO Really Felt Like

27:08 Paula’s 4 A’s Framework for Leading From Day One

30:00 The One Life Lesson Paula Swears By

31:41 Quickfire with Paula – Pizza Orders, McFly & Collabs

34:43 Strong Roots and Giving Back – Paula’s Perspective

36:00 Paula’s Duvet Flip – Doing What She Loves Every Day

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Nick Foster is the General Manager for Mars Pet Nutrition in Northern Europe, where he leads with a passion for purpose, people, and pets. With nearly 20 years at Mars, he’s held diverse roles across sales, marketing, and supply chain, always driven by a desire to be a good ancestor.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:23 Meet the General Manager of Mars Petcare

1:00 From RAF Dreams to a Business Career

2:05 Finding Purpose Through Pet Care

3:20 Nick’s Duvet Flip: Being a Good Ancestor

4:10 Lessons from McDonald’s and Early Work Ethic

5:15 Accidental Entry into Mars

6:40 Career Advice: Squiggly Lines & Making Friends

8:10 General Management Explained

9:45 Mars Petcare’s Scale and Purpose

11:15 Changing Law to Help Renters with Pets

13:00 Cancer-Sniffing Dogs & Coral Reef Projects

15:00 Mars’ Family Values and Long-Term Thinking

16:40 Starting a Career at Mars: Advice to Young People

18:00 The Myth of Work-Life Balance

19:30 How to Build a Career with Impact

21:10 Nick’s Leadership Style and Communication Growth

23:00 The Power of Mentorship & Sponsorship

25:00 Fun Q&A: Sloths, Brainstorms & Huskies

28:00 Key Digital Skills for Petcare Careers

30:00 Final Lessons on Career, Purpose & Progression

33:15 What Gets Nick Out of Bed Each Day

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Tom Wallis is the Chief Customer Officer at Compare the Market, with a dynamic career spanning consulting, startups, and brand leadership. He's known for blending data-driven thinking with creative marketing to lead iconic campaigns.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:48 Tom’s Early Career and First Job

2:53 Lessons from Temping and the Power of Observation

4:55 Joining Accenture and Consulting Foundations

6:54 Why Tom Quit Without a Job

8:33 Dealing with Uncertainty and Finding the Next Step

9:57 Getting into Sky and Discovering Marketing

11:45 Breaking Into the Marketing Team

13:34 Landing His First Marketing Role

15:20 Lessons from Startup Life at Now TV

17:13 Facing Rejection — and Proving Them Wrong

18:42 Creating a Sales Surge That Changed the Business

20:01 Learning to Ask for Help and Growing Fast

21:27 Obsession, Flow States, and Finding His Thing

23:03 Tom’s Biggest Money Regret

24:03 Tom’s Simplest Money Tip for Young People

25:20 Transitioning to Gusto and Building Again

26:44 Joining Compare the Market

28:27 The Culture That Drives High Performance

30:04 What a Chief Customer Officer Really Does

31:25 Reviving One of the UK’s Most Iconic Brands

33:09 How to Build a Personal Brand Authentically

36:16 Tom’s Invisible Success

38:06 Tom’s Duvet Flip – Why He Shows Up Every Day

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Rhys Degruchy is the Graduate Development and Support Leader at Halo, where he mentors new talent and helps shape the next generation of high performers. With a background in physics and a passion for people, Rhys is driven by trust, autonomy, and a relentless desire to improve.

Ben Thorpe is the Infrastructure Manager at Halo, having grown through the ranks over seven years. Obsessed with progress and delivery, Ben leads by example and is known for turning ambition into action across high-impact projects.

Episode Timestamps

0:00 Introduction

0:44 Meet Rhys and Ben from Halo

1:36 Why They Said Yes to My Duvet Flip

2:18 Their First Ever Jobs (Coffee Shops & Sunglasses)

4:23 Early Lessons in Communication and Confidence

6:00 How They Found Halo (and Why They Stayed)

8:19 From Suit & Tie to Shorts & Trust: The Halo Culture

10:35 Why Halo Feels Like a Sports Team

12:24 Obsession at Work: What It Means at Halo

13:46 Why Young People Progress So Fast Here

15:02 Who Shouldn’t Work at Halo

16:28 What Halo Has Taught Them About Life

18:10 The Message to Future Applicants

19:20 Their Duvet Flip: Why They Get Out of Bed

Episode Partners

Check out the latest from Halo:

https://halograduates.com and https://www.instagram.com/halonextgen/

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Tim Mason is the CEO of Eagle Eye and a veteran of British retail, best known for his 30-year career at Tesco where he helped launch the Clubcard. He brings decades of experience in marketing, loyalty, and digital transformation.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:41 Meet Tim – The Duvet Flip Moment

1:56 Tim’s First Job: From Fruit Farm to Boardroom

3:06 What Makes a Great First Employee

4:48 The Power of Enthusiasm in Retail

6:07 Why Tim Chose Advertising (At Age 8)

7:20 Breaking Into Unilever with Bad Grades

8:02 The Unexpected Path to Tesco

9:45 Staying 30 Years in One Company

11:06 What Actually Keeps You Moving Forward

12:29 How EQ Beat Academia for Tim

13:35 One Smart Move That Got the Whole Tesco Board’s Attention

15:03 Struggles with Dyslexia and School

16:19 The Importance of Showing Up and Doing the Work

17:19 Culture: How to Read It and When to Leave

18:24 The “Rumble” – Reviving Stores with Real Action

20:14 What’s Happening in Retail Right Now

21:53 Why Retail’s Middle Market Is in Trouble

23:00 Personalisation: The Future of Winning in Retail

24:55 What Eagle Eye Actually Does

26:00 A Route to Double the Size of Eagle Eye

27:15 A Direct Message to Retailers Watching

28:13 The Danger of Grouping Consumers Into ‘Audiences’

29:46 What Retailers Must Do Differently Today

31:04 Launching Clubcard: The Loyalty Gamechanger

32:50 From 0.5B to 10B Offers: Personalisation at Scale

34:00 How Stores Are Using AI to Target Customers

35:27 Why Some Stores Feel “Revved Up” — and Others Don’t

36:39 What the Next Generation of Retail Leaders Need

40:23 Tim’s Duvet Flip: Helping Others Do Better

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Matt Callaghan is the Chief Operating Officer at easyJet Holidays, where he leads customer experience, operations, and long-term strategy. With a background spanning Deloitte, British Airways, and frontline leadership at Heathrow, Matt brings a rare blend of operational grit and strategic vision.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:23 Why Matt Said Yes to My Duvet Flip

2:14 First Job at Next: Life Lessons from Retail

4:00 Why Students Should Get a Job While Studying

5:24 From No Plan to Deloitte Graduate Scheme

7:01 Taking the First Step Without a 5-Year Plan

8:20 What "All-In" Really Means

10:16 Work-Life Blend and Being Present

13:12 Failing Exams and Bouncing Back

14:43 What Working Hard Means to Matt

17:06 The Power of Curiosity — And Acting on It

18:59 Why Matt Left Deloitte for British Airways

21:00 Moving to London: Expectations vs. Reality

23:00 Feeling Stuck and Choosing to Pivot

24:57 Getting the Heathrow Operations Role Without Airline Experience

27:11 Falling in Love with Aviation

29:00 Why Matt Applied for a Job He Wasn’t Qualified For

30:45 From Terminal 5 to easyJet

32:11 A Global Role That Wasn’t Sustainable

33:02 Joining easyJet and Shaping Strategy

34:46 Building easyJet Holidays from the Ground Up

36:00 Why easyJet Holidays Is a Special Place to Work

37:43 Life Lesson: What Fostering Taught Matt About Leadership

40:18 Matt’s Duvet Flip: Creating Joy and Connection Through Travel

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Sam Sims is the Chief Executive of National Numeracy, with a career rooted in empowering individuals through confidence-building and lifelong learning. His work focuses on supporting those often overlooked to realise their potential with the right tools and encouragement.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:32 Meet Sam Sims, CEO of National Numeracy

1:13 What National Numeracy does

1:54 Sam’s early work and first jobs

3:06 Lessons from the call centre

4:18 How Sam built confidence as an introvert

5:21 Honest talk on imposter syndrome

6:16 Why networking is Sam’s greatest professional tool

7:23 The right (and wrong) way to network

8:55 From research to running his own business

10:11 What his first company was really about

11:02 When business plans don’t go to plan

11:42 Discovering purpose through volunteering in the US

13:10 Helping a teenager unlock maths confidence

14:19 Why confidence is more important than skill

15:06 The long-term impact of belief and encouragement

15:52 Why Sam joined the charity sector

17:02 What keeps him motivated in the third sector

17:51 Why volunteering is the engine behind social impact

18:37 National Numeracy’s biggest annual campaign

19:45 The power of their partnership with Compare the Market

21:00 How number confidence connects to money

22:01 Why financial literacy is about mindset first

23:00 Sam’s biggest money regret

24:06 One money tip Sam wishes he knew at 18

25:00 Helping communities through local volunteers

26:04 What the charity sector gives back to professionals

27:13 The best work-life lesson Sam ever received

28:09 Sam’s final message on confidence and belief

29:00 What gets Sam out of bed in the morning — his duvet flip

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Lukas Kaminskis is the CEO of Boom Training and Turing College, two organisations focused on transforming tech education across Europe. He’s a serial entrepreneur passionate about building learner-first experiences that unlock economic mobility.

Benas Sidlauskas is the Chief Business Development Officer at Boom Training and Turing College. A long-time co-founder with Lukas, Benas is driven by creating scalable education models that equip people for the future of work.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:20 Meet Lukas and Benas: Co-Founders of Turing College

1:00 From debating rivals to co-founders

2:00 Lukas' first job: rats, grain, and coding bootcamps

3:20 Why Lukas turned down a political path

5:00 Benas’ first hustle: filmmaking at 14

6:15 The presidential film project that changed everything

7:30 Growing up in small towns, dreaming big

8:45 Turning down top universities to start something new

10:00 Investors said no — so they bootstrapped from scratch

11:20 Explaining bootstrapping: lessons and mindset

12:40 Organising events without a legal entity

14:00 Partnering with Harvard — and how Facebook helped

15:20 Getting government backing to bring CS50 to Europe

16:45 Flying to Boston and signing with Harvard

17:30 What Turing College actually does

18:40 Why AI and data skills matter more than ever

20:10 Scaling across 80+ countries

21:20 Impact stories from Uganda and Nigeria

22:40 Acquiring Boom Training and expanding in the UK

24:10 The apprenticeship system — and how they’re transforming it

25:20 Peer-led learning: the secret behind their model

26:30 What makes UK apprenticeships restrictive

28:00 Levy funding: what SMEs are missing out on

29:30 Why upskilling needs to go beyond senior leaders

31:00 What Europe must do to stay competitive in AI

32:00 Lukas on AI’s impact on the labour market

33:30 The financial mindset that helped them grow

34:20 Benas’ biggest money mistake

35:10 Lukas’ #1 advice on investing in yourself

36:00 Money tip: Spend first on “musts”, then “wants”

37:10 What success looks like in 5 years

38:20 Why education must evolve now

39:30 What’s broken in the system — and their fix

40:30 Their message to young people: take control

41:20 Their message to businesses: don’t forget the non-power users

42:20 Benas’ invisible success: resilience through rejection

43:20 Lukas’ invisible success: 10-year co-foundership

44:30 How they complement each other as co-founders

45:30 What gets Lukas out of bed: fixing the future of work

46:20 What motivates Benas: belief in Europe’s innovation potential

47:40 Jack’s reflections and final thoughts

48:40 Outro and thanks

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Richard Walker is the Executive Chairman of Iceland Foods and a passionate advocate for responsible business. He also founded the sustainable property firm Bywater, blending purpose, grit and leadership to champion people and planet.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:48 Why business is a force for good

1:34 Richard’s first job and early lessons in customer service

3:44 What makes a great communicator?

4:53 Battling assumptions and proving himself

6:14 A year on the shop floor: lessons in humility and leadership

8:15 The power of team culture in retail

9:42 Leadership vs management

10:46 Facing hard days in a tough industry

11:58 The palm oil campaign — and media backlash

13:39 Social impact: microloans, food banks and responsibility

15:00 Why politics wasn’t the answer

16:57 Learning resilience through failure and Everest

19:06 Just keep going: Richard’s Everest analogy

20:28 Biggest money regret

21:09 Richard’s money tip to his younger self

21:56 The Poland chapter: starting from scratch

24:51 Returning to the UK and building a bold property vision

28:03 Pushing through the no’s

29:41 Rethinking what a ‘network’ really means

30:59 Is social media helping or harming ambition?

32:13 Staying authentic in the influencer age

33:50 The four Ps: Passion, Purpose, Profit & Peace

36:43 The influence of Richard’s father and family legacy

38:58 Why Richard joined Iceland despite doubts

40:24 The invisible driver behind Richard’s success

41:52 Richard’s duvet flip moment

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Nick Bent is the CEO of upReach, a UK-based social mobility charity helping university students from less-advantaged backgrounds secure top graduate jobs. With a background spanning government, business, and the third sector, Nick co-founded upReach to level the playing field for talented young people.

German Bencci is the CEO and founder of CodeYourFuture, a volunteer-driven organisation training individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to launch successful careers in tech. Originally from Venezuela, German built CodeYourFuture into a global community offering accessible, flexible, and impactful tech education.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:41 Why mentoring and informal conversations matter

1:26 Meet Nick Bent and German Bencci

2:03 First jobs and early career lessons

4:00 Nick's pivot from law to public policy

5:00 German's journey from Venezuela to Europe

6:42 Taking leaps before you're ready

7:49 The power of asking for help

8:13 How mentors shaped Nick and German

9:32 Why in-person learning still matters

11:00 Role models and mindset shifts

12:02 Mentorship at CodeYourFuture and upReach

13:37 From volunteering to founding a charity

16:03 Turning passion into full-time purpose

17:31 Spotting a gap and launching CodeYourFuture

19:02 How young people can start volunteering

21:03 Volunteering as work experience

22:54 The real value of giving your time

24:04 What upReach does for young people

25:26 The graduate job gap and social mobility

27:36 How CodeYourFuture supports career changers

29:54 Removing barriers: childcare, laptops, and support

32:00 How the HG Foundation makes it possible

33:19 What is the Tech 500 programme?

35:12 VIP access to Google HQ

37:05 Restarting CodeYourFuture’s software programme

39:52 How corporate partners can get involved

42:31 Paid internships and practical pathways

44:59 Final question: What's your duvet flip?

Episode Partners:

Hg Foundation

Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.

https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Briya Campbell is the Senior Data Enablement Manager at Compare the Market, where she champions innovation and inclusion in the data space. With a dynamic background spanning retail and tech, Briya is passionate about mentorship, representation, and driving commercial impact through data.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:23 Meet the Guest: Senior Data Enablement Manager at Compare the Market

1:03 Bria’s Background: Growing Up in a Single-Parent Household

2:04 First Job Lessons: Patience and Pivoting

4:00 How a Career Academy Opened New Doors

5:57 The Power of Mentorship

7:32 Planning a Future Without a Blueprint

9:00 Being First in the Family to Go to Uni

10:48 The Grit from a Single-Parent Upbringing

12:02 Giving Back: Mentoring Four, Learning from Two

13:25 Breaking into Data After Redundancy

14:44 What Compare the Market Is Really Like

16:27 The Importance of Representation at Work

17:23 Money Tips: Pensions, Budgeting & Saving Early

19:02 Being a Role Model and Staying Authentic

20:47 Advice for Young Black Women in the Workplace

22:30 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

23:55 Why Data & AI Are Exciting Careers

25:29 Final Advice: Take the Risk, Be the Cultural Add

25:50 Bria’s Duvet Flip

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guests

James Turner is the CEO of the Hg Foundation, leading its mission to drive social mobility through technology and education.

Elona Mortimer-Zhika is a Board Trustee at the Hg Foundation and a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and access to tech careers.

Episode Timestamps

0:00 Introduction

0:49 Meet James and Elona from the HG Foundation

1:27 Why tech access is a social mobility issue

2:29 James’ journey from law to education leadership

3:42 Elona’s powerful story: from Albania to tech boardrooms

5:00 Why opportunity is everything — and not equally shared

6:07 What the HG Foundation actually does

8:01 Scaling impact: 100,000 tech opportunities

9:24 Behind the partnerships driving change

11:00 The diversity crisis in tech

12:27 Why inclusion powers better businesses

13:40 Data-backed impact and smarter giving

15:00 Why Elona believes “playing small does not serve the world”

16:26 Who backs the HG Foundation — and why it matters

17:58 The unique power of the HG network

19:46 Why tech careers are ideal for young people

21:26 Mira Murati, ChatGPT & tech role models

23:06 How to future-proof your career with tech

24:52 Real programs, real opportunities

26:07 Final message to the next generation

28:07 James' duvet flip moment

28:43 Elona’s reason for showing up — every single time

29:50 Closing thanks

Episode Partners

Hg Foundation

Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.

https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Matthew Wragg is the CEO at Gattaca Plc. Parent company to Matchtech, Infosec People and Gattaca Projects , where he’s spent over two decades rising through 12 roles to lead the company. Known for his people-first approach and belief in learning through hard graft, Matthew brings deep insight into recruitment, leadership, and resilience.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:20 Matthew’s first job and “get the hell out if it’s not learning” mindset

4:10 From door‑to‑door sales to recruitment: the pivot

7:05 What “hard graft” really means and why it matters

10:22 The role of emotional intelligence in recruitment

13:35 How recruitment has stayed the same — and what’s changed

16:40 Building a team game, not just a desk/mini‑business

19:12 The power of curiosity: “everybody knows something you don’t”

22:30 What makes a great recruiter and what the industry gets wrong

25:45 Inside Gattaca PLC: culture, identity & client‑candidate impact

29:10 Matthew’s “duvet‑flip” moment: what wakes him up in the morning

32:05 Financial decisions, bold steps & money tips

35:20 Career reflections: loyalty, learning and making yourself redundant

38:00 Closing thoughts & take‑aways

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Tanuja Randery is the Managing Director for Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. A passionate advocate for digital skills and inclusive leadership, she has helped train over 31 million learners globally.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:20 From Early Jobs to Self‑Discovery

3:50 Breaking Into McKinsey: Network & Opportunity

6:15 Doing Excellent Work & Beyond the Ask

8:40 The Partnership Snub: Atlanta & Betrayal

11:10 Reflection: What Was Missing

13:00 Connecting What + How in Leadership

15:20 Resilience: Balance, Energy & the 40‑40‑20 Rule

17:45 Building Your “Board”: Sponsors, Mentors & Squad

20:10 Feedback Fear: Receiving, Unpacking, Acting

22:40 Skills, Tech & Digital Futures

25:10 Training 31M Learners & AWS Impact

27:30 What Gets Me Out of Bed: Her “Duvet Flip”

29:00 Final Reflections & Close

Episode Partners

Hg Foundation

Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.

https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Penny Taylor is the HR Director at Compare the Market, where she leads with a passion for inclusivity, kindness, and commercial impact. Her career journey spans retail, travel, and people leadership, grounded in real-world grit and deep empathy.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction & Why This Chat Matters

1:15 Penny’s Early Years & Academic Setbacks

3:10 The “Floater” Role — Learning Every Part of a Business

5:00 First Jobs, Travel & Finding Direction

7:25 Transition Into the Corporate World

9:10 Discovering HR: From Regional Manager to People Leader

11:30 The Heart of HR: Doing the Right Thing with Kindness

13:45 How to Be Fair, Inclusive & Honest in HR

15:50 Dealing with Mistakes, Taking Responsibility & Resilience

18:00 Money Lessons: Worst Regrets & Pension Tips

20:10 What Makes a Great HR Professional

22:00 Embracing AI: How She Uses Tech in HR Today

24:10 What Gets Her Out of Bed: The Duvet Flip

25:30 Final Reflections & Advice

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Matt Madrigal is the Chief Technology Officer at Pinterest, where he leads product management, engineering, and infrastructure for the platform. With a career spanning eBay, Google, and Fanatics, Matt is a seasoned e-commerce and tech leader passionate about building positive, high-impact user experiences.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:23 From Chico to Pizza Shop: Matt’s First Job

3:45 Lessons in Work Ethic from Immigrant Parents

5:32 What Hard Work Really Means

8:01 The Cheers and Chores Philosophy

10:46 Breaking into Tech & Early Career Moves

13:30 Surviving the Dot-Com Boom

15:58 Joining eBay and Learning at Scale

19:15 Why Shopping & E-Commerce Hooked Matt

21:40 Choosing Managers vs. Missions

24:01 The Truth About AI & Early Career Jobs

27:18 What Makes a Great Software Engineer

30:12 The Red Flags in Tech Talent

32:14 Key Lessons from Google

35:17 Undoing Old Habits to Grow

37:20 Why Matt Said Yes to Pinterest

39:34 What Sets Pinterest Apart

42:01 Using Pinterest to Inspire Youth Spaces

44:00 Why Pinterest Is a Great Place to Work

46:19 Matt’s Biggest Life Lessons

48:35 Matt’s Duvet Flip: Solving Hard Problems with Great People

Episode Partners

Hg Foundation

Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.

https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Graham Rogers

Graham Rogers is the Co-CEO of Homes for Students, bringing a decade of leadership experience in student accommodation and a passion for a people-first culture.

Kate Forester

Kate Forester is the Managing Director at Homes for Students, known for her straight-talking leadership style, focus on team development, and deep commitment to delivering on promises.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:41 Meet Kate & Graham — Double Trouble

1:46 First Jobs: Paper Rounds & Waitressing

4:00 Early Money Lessons & Family Motivation

5:30 Advice for Young People Starting Out

8:00 How to Know When a Job Isn’t for You

10:35 From Waitressing to Banking to Leadership

13:20 Presence, Imposter Syndrome & Tangible Feedback

16:45 Independence & Grit in the Workplace

20:15 Climbing the Career Ladder the Right Way

23:05 Resilience: Why Young People Need More of It

26:15 Giving Feedback Without Fear

29:05 The Story Behind Homes for Students

32:00 How You Leave a Job Matters

35:15 Starting a Business: The Risks & Real Talk

38:00 Leadership Lessons from the Early Days

41:00 Building a People-First Culture

43:00 Dealing with Mucky Ducks in Business

45:00 Learning the Hard Way — Personal Reflections

47:30 What's Next for Homes for Students

49:00 Kate & Graham’s Duvet Flip

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Llorayah Timbou Faucher is a Degree Apprentice at Marks & Spencer who started as a quiet Christmas temp and is now inspiring future leaders. Her story is one of confidence, curiosity, and creating memorable moments for customers and colleagues alike.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:47 Starting as a Christmas Temp at 18

2:05 Nervous Beginnings & Not Knowing the Ropes

3:12 Learning the Power of “Just Ask”

4:30 From Quiet to Confident: Finding Her Voice

6:10 Falling in Love with Retail

7:45 When M&S Went from Job to Dream

9:10 Speaking Up as a Young Leader

10:35 Managing Dyslexia & Team Briefs

12:00 What Retail Teaches You About Life

13:30 Building Real Relationships at Work

14:55 The Role of Mentors in Her Journey

16:10 “You Can Do Anything, But Not Everything”

17:30 Learning to Prioritise & Focus

18:50 From Learner to Leader: Coaching Others

20:10 Inside the Degree Apprentice Programme

21:35 Advice for Future Christmas Temps

23:00 Llorayah’s Duvet Flip — Making People’s Day

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Kayte Houghton is the Payroll Lead at Marks & Spencer, where she’s risen from admin assistant to leading payroll for 65,000+ colleagues. A champion of resilience, Kayte’s journey from council house to career leadership shows what’s possible when passion meets opportunity.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:49 Kayte’s Early Life as a Teen Mum

2:15 Living on Benefits & Hitting Rock Bottom

3:40 The Courage to Visit the Job Centre

4:50 Discovering the Marks & Start Programme

6:10 Finding a Buzz in Admin Work

7:30 Gaining Confidence from Small Wins

8:45 Getting the Life-Changing Phone Call

10:10 Starting Her First Role at M&S

11:40 Learning the Power of Supportive Managers

13:00 Climbing from Admin to Team Leader

14:35 Reclaiming the Word “Ambitious”

16:00 How M&S Feels Like Family

17:20 Seeking Mentors & Giving Back

18:45 Imposter Syndrome & Belonging

20:00 Falling into Payroll — and Loving It

21:15 Why Empathy Matters When Handling Pay

23:10 From Post Room to Payroll Lead

24:30 Kayte’s Duvet Flip — Personal Pride & Identity

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Kate Goolnik is a Food Business Graduate at Marks & Spencer with a passion for how food gets from supplier to shelf. From night shifts in nightclubs to store openings and sandwich logistics, Kate’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and drive.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:48 Starting Out in Nightclubs During Uni

2:15 Learning to Work With Different People

3:20 The Supermarket Fascination

4:30 From Store Launch to Grad Scheme

6:10 Finding a Sponsor Who Opened Doors

7:55 “It’s Okay Not to Know” — Career Advice

9:40 Why M&S Just Felt Right

11:05 Primary School Doubts & Dyslexia Discovery

12:55 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

14:30 Learning to Flip Your Mindset

15:40 Why Kate Loves M&S Culture

17:10 The Great Sandwich Challenge — A Lesson in Resilience

19:00 Learning from Mistakes and Supporting Others

20:20 Kate’s Duvet Flip — Why She Gets Up Every Day

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Alice Grennan is a Fashion, Home & Beauty Product Graduate at Marks & Spencer, where she’s building a multifaceted retail career. From lava flows to sustainable fashion, Alice’s squiggly career path is powered by passion, resilience, and confidence.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:48 Alice’s First Job at 13 — The £5 Paper Round

2:05 Hustling for Hospitality Roles

3:15 How Early Jobs Built Resilience

4:30 From Geography to Fashion — A Career Reroute

6:10 Falling in Love with Sustainable Style

7:45 Choosing M&S Over Another Grad Job

9:15 What It’s Like Working in Retail Over Christmas

11:00 From Shop Floor to Head Office — Seeing It All

12:40 Why Every Grad Should Start in Store

14:05 The Power of Rotations at M&S

15:45 Marketing, Buying & Plan A — Her Favourite Roles

18:00 Learning from Mentors, Leaders & Experience

19:30 Building Confidence in the Corporate World

21:00 Alice’s Duvet Flip — Why She Shows Up Every Day

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Jhorvis Tyrell is a Warehouse Operative at Marks & Spencer who started through the Prince’s Trust programme. From overcoming nerves to becoming a confident team player, he’s passionate about helping customers get their orders on time — every time.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:50 Meeting M&S Through the Prince’s Trust

1:45 First Impressions of the Warehouse

2:30 How Jhorvis Handled His Nerves

3:15 Becoming a Picker — What the Role Involves

4:40 Confidence, Colleagues & Community

6:00 “Don’t Give Up” — Advice for Job Seekers

7:15 Supporting His Mum Through Work

8:20 Learning Automation Skills

9:45 Why M&S Feels Like a Family

11:00 What It’s Like Working in the Warehouse

12:20 Favourite Roles: Picking vs Automation

13:30 Helping New Starters Succeed

14:30 Jhorvis’ Duvet Flip — Why He Gets Up Each Day

16:00 Final Thoughts on Confidence, Mentors & Pride in the Job

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

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