In this conversation, Plumm and Laura Miller discuss the critical role of leadership buy-in in implementing effective workplace wellbeing strategies. They explore the challenges faced by HR professionals, including burnout and the need for self-care, while emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making in HR. The discussion also touches on the evolution of mental health conversations in the workplace, the impact of technology, and practical steps organizations can take to foster a culture of wellbeing. Laura shares insights on how small initiatives can lead to significant improvements in employee engagement and overall workplace culture. This conversation delves into the importance of mental health and wellbeing initiatives in the workplace, emphasizing the need for diversity, inclusion, and individualized approaches. The discussion highlights the role of HR in fostering a supportive environment, the significance of open communication, and actionable steps organizations can take to enhance their wellbeing programs. The speakers share insights on normalizing mental health conversations and the impact of effective leadership on employee wellbeing.

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Asim Amin welcomes Georgia Dixon, founder of Access HR. They delve into the transformative power of online relationships, particularly through platforms like LinkedIn, and how these connections can lead to meaningful offline collaborations. Georgia shares her admiration for Plumm's commitment to making a difference in HR and mental health, emphasising the importance of genuine relationships.  

They discuss building a community and creating the leading HR and mental health podcast in the UK, with aspirations for global reach. Asim reflects on the importance of finding the right host, ultimately Georgia as the perfect fit due to her expertise and shared values. Georgia expresses her enthusiasm for breaking down stereotypes in HR and mental health, aiming to foster real conversations that resonate with listeners.  

Join Asim and Georgia as they embark on this new chapter, promising to deliver engaging content that challenges the status quo and inspires listeners to think differently about HR and mental health. This episode is just the beginning of an exciting journey—stay tuned for more!

• Community in HR and mental health  

• Genuine relationships  

• Breaking down stereotypes

• Building a leading podcast  

Georgia Dixon is the founder of Access HR, a leading HR consultancy firm focused on providing transformational and sustainable people solutions. With a passion for creating positive workplaces, Georgia is dedicated to empowering employees and fostering a culture of well-being. She has worked with over 500 leaders and teams of over 5,000 employees, helping businesses scale with modern HR strategies. Georgia is an Associate CIPD and holds a Mental Health First Aid certification, demonstrating her commitment to creating inclusive and supportive workplaces.  

• Georgia Dixon on LinkedIn

• Access HR Ltd on LinkedIn

• Access HR’s Website

• Sign up for Georgia’s Newsletter

• Work with Georgia and Access HR - Waitlist

• Access HR Partnerships - Schedule an Appointment 

[00:00] Intro  

[00:44] Building Relationships Beyond the Screen  

[01:44] Transformations in HR and Mental Health Space

[05:21] The Birth of a Community-Focused Podcast  

[06:01] From Guest to Host: A Full Circle Moment  

[07:19] Challenging the Status Quo in HR and Mental Health  

[07:44] A Vision for the Future

In this conversation, Plumm and Jennifer Longden discuss the evolution of HR, emphasising the need for resilience and adaptability in the face of constant change. They explore the role of improvisation in business, the importance of active listening, and how organizational culture is shaped by leadership.

The discussion also highlights the future of HR, focusing on the significance of data and wellbeing in creating a supportive work environment. In this conversation, Plumm discusses the critical importance of human wellbeing in organizations, emphasizing the need for psychological safety and support for employees.

The dialogue transitions into the future of HR, highlighting the role of technology and AI in streamlining processes and allowing HR professionals to focus on people-centric strategies. The conversation also touches on the evolving relationship between HR and unions, the impact of generational changes on workplace culture, and the importance of finding joy and advocating for oneself in the workplace.

In this conversation, Amy discusses the complexities of creating an open culture in the workplace, especially in the context of post-COVID changes. She emphasizes the importance of navigating change management, fostering work-life balance, and prioritizing employee wellbeing. The dialogue highlights the need for open communication, curiosity over blame, and the significance of leadership in creating a supportive environment. Amy shares insights on how organizations can better support employees during transitions and the value of simplifying complex dynamics in the workplace. In this conversation, the importance of leadership in promoting wellbeing services is emphasized, highlighting that the success of such initiatives relies heavily on the commitment of HR and leadership teams. The integration of HR and wellbeing platforms is discussed, showcasing how a consolidated approach can enhance employee engagement. The conversation also addresses the stigma surrounding mental health and the need for convenient access to support services. The necessity of advocating for wellbeing budgets in organizations, especially during challenging times, is underscored. Additionally, the discussion touches on the aftermath of COVID-19 and its impact on mental health, emphasizing the need for organizations to create environments where employees can thrive. Finally, the power of gratitude and reflection is highlighted as a tool for personal growth and resilience

On this episode of the Plumm Pod, Georgia Dixon welcomes Natalie Pearce, culture and leadership expert and co-founder of The Future Kind, to discuss how connection serves as a critical business strategy. They explore the evolution of workplace connection post-pandemic, the importance of intentional communication, and how strong team relationships drive business performance.

In this episode of The Plumm Podcast, host Georgia speaks with Harry Gasiorski, an experienced HR Director and currently a Strategic HR Consultant, about his unexpected journey into HR, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building strong relationships with stakeholders. They explore aligning people strategy with business goals, transitioning from operational to strategic HR, and using data to demonstrate HR's impact. Packed with actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for HR professionals!

Episode Chapters:

[00:00] Intro

[00:04:34] Unexpected Path to HR

[00:06:49] Embracing Additional Work for Growth

[00:09:01] Building Trust with Senior Stakeholders

[00:11:29] Transitioning to Strategic HR

[00:21:03] Fostering Diversity and Inclusion

[00:27:30] Measuring HR Impact with Data

In this episode of The Plumm Podcast, host Georgia chats about workplace well-being with mental health expert Kirsty Birch, Founder of Work It Well. They discuss burnout, the evolving focus on mental health, and practical strategies for fostering supportive environments. Kirsty shares her journey and offers actionable advice for creating healthier, more empathetic workplaces.

Episode Chapters:

[00:00] Intro
[00:02:32] Kirsty's Journey to Mental Health Advocacy
[00:06:32] The Business Case for Mental Health
[00:10:19] The Challenges of Remote Work
[00:12:55] Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health
[00:19:14] Dynamic Well-Being Strategies
[00:30:48] The Importance of Communication

In this episode of Plumm Pod, host Georgia Dixon welcomes Kate Phillips, a global HR professional and the Talent Attraction and Employer Brand lead at Priory, to explore the dynamic world of global human resources. Kate shares her unexpected journey into HR, insights on navigating cultural differences, and the importance of understanding local employment laws. They delve into post-COVID talent acquisition trends, the challenges of compliance, and practical advice for aspiring global HR professionals. Packed with anecdotes and actionable tips, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating or aspiring to thrive in global HR.

Episode Chapters:

[00:00] Intro

[01:27] Falling into HR

[04:32] Understanding Global HR

[06:19] The Complexity of Global Hiring

[11:16] Cultural Nuances in Global HR

[15:56] Legal Complexities in Global HR

[24:07] Advice for Aspiring Global HR Professionals

In this episode of Plumm Pod, host Georgia Dixon chats with Chalene Hanson, Global HR Director at Burberry, about excelling in HR leadership while staying authentic. Chalene shares her journey from accidental HR professional to global director, offering insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, mastering multi-generational team management, and building influence through business language. Learn how to network effectively, invest in personal development, and embrace the mantra: "Go where you're celebrated, not tolerated." This episode is a must-listen for HR professionals seeking strategic growth.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Intro: The Future of Multi-Generational Workplaces

01:43 - An Unexpected Journey: From Politics to HR Leadership

06:25 - Building Your Personal Brand in HR: Beyond Job Titles

11:00 - The Three Levels of Organisational Awareness

14:55 - Breaking Free from HR Jargon: Speaking Business Language

16:57 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Finding Your Authentic Leadership Style

21:04 - Managing Multi-Generational Teams: Understanding Different Needs

24:11 - Taking Ownership of Your Career Growth

26:00 - Investing in Yourself: Building Networks Beyond Your Organisation

30:14 - Final Wisdom: Go Where You're Celebrated, Not Tolerated

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia Dixon welcomes storytelling, culture expert and Founder of THO, Tommy Hatto to discuss how HR leaders can use storytelling to transform workplace culture. They explore strategies for fostering authentic leadership, breaking communication barriers, and creating psychologically safe workplace spaces. From micro-doses of personal sharing to HR-marketing collaboration, this episode provides actionable insights for leaders looking to build stronger connections and enhance employee engagement through the power of storytelling.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Intro & Welcome

02:15 Understanding Storytelling's Power in the Workplace

04:23 Starting Small: Building Trust Through Personal Stories

08:32 Breaking Down Barriers: Mental Health & Psychological Safety

12:17 HR & Marketing: A Powerful Partnership for Culture

18:41 Leadership Storytelling: Being Relatable While Maintaining Authority

22:23 Setting Boundaries: Balancing Personal Stories & Brand Protection

26:35 Face-to-Face Connection: The Impact of In-Person Storytelling

28:27 Final Thoughts: Believing in Yourself as an HR Professional

In this episode of Plumm Pod, Georgia Dixon chats with AI strategy expert Mary Kemp about what HR leaders need to know when introducing tools like ChatGPT and Gamma. They cover the real impact of AI at work, how it can free up time for more meaningful tasks, and what a people-first approach to tech adoption really looks like. 

They also unpack policies, change management, and the small shifts that make a big difference when rolling out AI across teams. 

Whether you’re new to HR or leading change in your organisation, this one’s full of ideas you can actually use. 

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Intro: HR Leading the AI Revolution with Mary Kemp

01:25 From Nursing to AI: Mary's Unique Career Journey

03:20 Understanding GenAI: A Human-First Technology

04:41 The Four Stages of AI Adoption in the Workplace

06:37 Transforming Work Culture: The 80/20 AI Principle

10:04 Getting Started: Practical Tips for AI Implementation

15:41 Creating Safe Spaces for AI Culture Change

19:33 People-First Approach: How AI Empowers HR Leaders

23:28 Building an AI-Ready Organization Through Training

26:57 Managing AI Compliance and GDPR Considerations

28:16 Final Thoughts: Being Visible and Speaking Up in Tech

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia Dixon welcomes Holly Leckenby Rye, Senior People Manager at Lottie, the UK Startup of the Year 2025. Together, they explore the key elements of building high-performing teams in startups. From innovative pre-boarding strategies to fostering psychological safety and effective feedback mechanisms, this conversation is packed with actionable insights. Whether you're an HR professional or a startup leader, tune in for expert advice on cultivating trust, enabling manager success, and creating a thriving workplace culture.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to The Plumm Pod: Building High Performance Teams

02:15 From Geography to HR: Holly's Journey to People Leadership

05:59 Creating an Effective Pre-boarding & Onboarding Experience

10:40 Manager Enablement: Supporting Leaders for Success

16:57 Building a Culture of Feedback & Trust

21:37 Managing High Performance During Emotional Challenges

26:20 The Power of Psychological Safety & Trust in Teams

28:52 Creating Purpose & Mission-Driven Culture at Lottie

30:07 Key Takeaways & Career Advice for HR Professionals

In this episode of Plumm Pod, host Georgia Dixon chats with Chantal Cross, Founder and Director at Cross Check Consultancy Ltd . They discuss new legislation requiring employers to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. They cover practical steps for compliance, from conducting risk assessments to creating effective reporting systems. The episode emphasises the importance of building a culture of respect and psychological safety. Whether you're new to HR or an experienced leader, this episode offers valuable insights into preventing harassment and protecting your organisation.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Intro: New Duty to Prevent Workplace Sexual Harassment

04:24 Understanding the New Prevention Duty: Why It Matters

09:18 Creating a Customized Approach: Risk Assessment Essentials

11:36 Breaking the Silence: Why People Don't Report Harassment

14:23 Modern Workplace Challenges: Digital Communication & Boundaries

17:05 Building a Positive Reporting Culture: Best Practices

20:14 The Business Case: Financial Impact of Prevention

23:56 Case Studies: Real-World Examples & Lessons Learned

26:28 Taking Action: Practical Steps for Implementation

29:43 Final Thoughts: Creating Safer Workplaces Together

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia sits down with Kellie Nedelcoux, HR Parental Transition & Leadership Coach, to discuss how organisations can better support parents in the workplace.

They unpack the real challenges faced by parental returners, the role of leaders in easing the transition back to work, and why inclusive policies need to reflect all family structures, not just the traditional ones.

This is a powerful conversation about psychological safety, belonging, and what it takes to build truly supportive environments for working parents.

Episode Chapters

00:00: Setting the Scene for Parental Transition

04:45: Challenges Faced by Parental Returners

10:02: Strategies for Supporting Parental Returners

14:48: The Role of Leaders in Parental Transition

20:02: Creating Inclusive Policies for All Parents

24:52: Best Practices for Supporting Working Parents

30:02: The Importance of Psychological Safety in the Workplace

In this episode, Shoshana Davis discusses the importance of understanding and engaging early career professionals, particularly Gen Z.

She shares her journey into HR and career development, emphasising the need for clear expectations, effective communication, and the impact of pre-boarding on new hires.

The conversation highlights retention strategies, the generational disconnect in the workplace, and the significance of purpose in job roles. Shoshana advocates for empowering managers to better support young talent and addresses the challenges faced by new employees in today's job market.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Gen Z's Desire for Purpose

01:32 Shoshana's Journey into HR and Career Development

07:40 Defining Early Careers and Their Challenges

09:34 Retention Strategies for Young Talent

12:47 Generational Disconnect in the Workplace

17:06 Pre-boarding: Preparing Young Talent for Success

23:02 Engagement Strategies for Early Career Professionals

30:37 The Importance of Role Clarity and Expectations

35:09 Communication as the Key to Retaining Talent

This isn’t your typical DEI conversation.

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia sits down with powerhouse inclusion strategist Maria Balogun to pull back the curtain on what real inclusion looks like in today’s workplace.

They challenge surface-level diversity, unpack the real impact of employee resource groups, and go deep into why organisations that don’t embrace inclusive practices are already falling behind.

Maria doesn’t hold back sharing bold insights on why “culture fit” is outdated, how “culture add” changes everything, and what it really takes to create workplaces where people belong.

From personal stories to practical frameworks, this conversation is a call to action for leaders who say they care about inclusion… but need to prove it.

Because in a world that’s finally listening, it’s not enough to look diverse. 

You need to be inclusive.

Episode Chapters 

00:00: The Essence of Diversity and Inclusion

03:51: Understanding Inclusion: Beyond Diversity

10:03: The Role of Employee Resource Groups

13:59: The Impact of DEI on Organizational Success

17:48: Culture Fit vs. Culture Add

24:08: Hiring Practices: Shifting Perspectives

30:07: Empowering Authenticity in the Workplace

AI is changing everything but is HR ready for it?

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, Georgia sits down with Lorraine Hunt, a 35-year HR veteran turned AI educator, to explore how artificial intelligence can be a game-changing tool for workplace mental health when used right.

We dive deep into:

How HR can proactively use AI for early mental health intervention

The importance of privacy and data ethics in AI implementation

Real examples of how AI is automating referrals, check-ins, and sentiment analysis

Why HR teams must evolve their mindset to lead AI-driven wellbeing strategies

Lorraine shares her unconventional journey from legal secretary to tech-forward HR leader, and explains why now not later is the time for HR to get comfortable with AI.

00:00 – Intro: AI + Mental Health in HR

01:10 – Lorraine Hunt’s HR journey: From legal secretary to AI educator

04:45 – Why HR needs to care about AI right now

07:20 – First tip: Before anything else, think about data privacy

09:15 – What AI can (and can't) do for mental health at work

12:08 – Predictive insights: spotting problems before they escalate

15:30 – How tools like Plum's Emma change early intervention

17:42 – Should AI be analysing Slack or Teams messages?

20:01 – The missing piece: AI strategy for mental health

24:40 – Creating ethical, proactive wellbeing dashboards

28:50 – Why HR pros often get no AI training

30:14 – Practical prompts: Using AI to write referrals and scripts

33:40 – The role of transparency and consent

35:25 – Helping managers get comfortable with mental health conversations

37:55 – Training AI to scan for mental health red flags

41:10 – Using AI to automate nudges and check-ins

43:50 – Will AI ever replace the human element?

46:00 – What's next: AI agents, evolving job roles & the future of HR

50:40 – Advice to HR pros: “Just try it. What’s the worst that can happen?”

52:30 – Final thoughts: Relax, adapt, and grow with it

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia is joined by Megan Trotter, a Senior People Experience Partner whose journey from architecture and UX design into PX is both inspiring and insightful. They dive deep into what people experience (PX) truly means and how it shifts the traditional HR narrative into something more human, design-led, and impactful. Whether you’re a seasoned HR professional or someone eager to introduce more creativity into the employee experience, this episode will reshape how you think about the world of work.Chapters:00:00 – The Human Cost of Poor Work Experiences00:44 – Meet Megan Trotter: From Architecture to PX02:15 – Discovering PX Through UX04:25 – What Is People Experience (PX)?06:13 – Why PX Matters for Engagement and Motivation08:28 – Skills to Transition from Traditional HR to PX10:21 – Start Small: Workshops, Discovery & Listening12:15 – From Transactions to Meaningful Experiences14:32 – Involving Employees in the Design Process16:24 – Megan’s Transition Into People Experience19:58 – The Power of Human Connection in PX21:10 – Challenges of PX in Scaling Businesses23:42 – Time Investment vs. Long-Term Impact25:22 – Design Tools: Frameworks, Personas & Feedback27:45 – When the Product Misses the Mark31:53 – Communication as an Experience33:22 – Advice to a Younger Megan: Courage & Curiosity

In this insightful episode of the Plumm Pod, host Georgia chats with Jag Gill, a People Operations Leader, to explore the evolving landscape of HR.

Discover what People Operations really means, how it differs from traditional HR, and why agility and transparency are key to modern workforce management.

Jag shares his journey from photography to recruitment to PeopleOps, offers practical advice for HR professionals embracing change, and explains how a holistic, data-driven approach can transform employee retention and engagement.

Whether you're new to PeopleOps or looking to future-proof your HR strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights and candid reflections on navigating today’s people-centric workplaces.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Transparency in PeopleOps

01:00 – Jag Gill’s Journey: From Photography to People Operations

02:30 – What is People Operations?

04:00 – PeopleOps vs Traditional HR

06:00 – Moving from Reactive HR to Proactive PeopleOps

08:20 – Why Modern Businesses Need PeopleOps

10:30 – Embracing Agility and Transparency in HR

13:00 – Driving Retention and Engagement with Systems Thinking

15:00 – Getting Started with Systems Thinking in HR

17:30 – Changing Mindsets for the Future of Work

20:30 – Communication Strategies in PeopleOps

24:30 – Advice for Early Career PeopleOps Professionals

26:20 – Trusting the Process: Career Reflections

27:50 – Bringing Personality to Your Professional Identity

When the world went remote, many organisations thrived, yet some are still wrestling with return-to-office mandates. In this episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia, sits down with remote-work specialist Grace Nichols to unpack the myths and mindsets behind location-flexible work.

Grace shares her unexpected journey from would-be barrister to HR leader, the burnout that pushed her to redesign her work life, and why autonomy over time is the new currency of success. Together they explore:

The real drivers of productivity (hint: it isn’t presenteeism).

Remote-first vs remote-friendly, why the difference matters for culture, communication and career growth.

Common missteps companies make when demanding a full office return and what HR can do instead.

Practical ways to build intentional in-person moments, mentor programmes and environments people want to work in.

How trust, transparent “why” messaging and the right workspace can turn hybrid into a competitive advantage.

Whether you’re an HR professional rethinking policy, a leader worried about performance, or a team member craving flexibility, this conversation offers fresh insights and actionable advice to help you design work that works for everyone.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Remote Work and HR

02:59 The Journey into HR and Remote Work Expertise

06:02 Benefits of Remote Work

08:48 Challenges and Resistance to Remote Work

11:56 The Importance of Communication and Intent in Hybrid Work

14:56 Remote-First vs. Remote-Friendly Companies

18:02 Creating a Productive Work Environment

20:49 Trust and Visibility in Remote Work

23:53 Advice for Young Professionals in HR

Explore the five must‑watch HR trends for 2025 in this episode of The Plumm Pod, where host Georgia sits down with Chris Britton, People Experience Director at Reward Gateway. Together they unpack how HR teams can prioritise strategically, cultivate cultures of appreciation, embed genuine belonging, streamline employee experiences, and upskill line managers to thrive amid hybrid work, tighter budgets and shifting UK employment law.Chris shares data‑backed insights, including why organisations that foster employee appreciation report up to a 43 % productivity lift plus practical tips on low‑cost benefits, employee voice, ERGs, storytelling your EVP and preparing “accidental managers”. Whether you’re a Chief People Officer, HR Business Partner, Talent Lead or SME founder, you’ll gain actionable ways to boost engagement, retention and profitability while supporting mental health.Listen now to future‑proof your people strategy and build a workplace where every team member thrives.Chapters 00:00 Intro: Why HR Bears the Brunt of Fast‑Changing Business01:05 Chris Britton’s Journey: From Selling Phones to People Experience Director02:59 Trend 1 – Prioritisation: Doing Less With Less & Making It Count05:43 Creative Low‑Budget People Practices & Leveraging Employee Voice08:10 Riding Out the 2024/25 “Storm” & Preparing for Brighter Times11:11 Trend 2 – Appreciation: Moving Beyond “Thanks” to Human‑Centred Recognition18:00 The 43 % Productivity Boost & Designing Recognition Habits20:44 Trend 3 – Belonging: Tackling Workplace Loneliness & Building ERGs23:08 Remote‑First Belonging Tactics & Data‑Driven Employee Census27:32 Trend 4 – Make It Make Sense: Marketing Your EVP Internally30:12 Brand Consistency From Attraction to Onboarding & Retention35:49 Trend 5 – Leaders & Managers: From Admin Tasks to Human Skills40:51 Overcoming Resistance: Coaching Managers Through Vulnerability & Change43:35 Chris’s Advice to His Younger Self: “You Are Enough”44:56 Wrap‑Up & Next Episode Teaser

In this powerful episode of The Plumm Pod, host Georgia sits down with global L&D expert Rihanna Lindsay-Smith to explore what it really means to create inclusive, accessible learning environments in the workplace.

From personal experience with dyslexia to leading major L&D programmes, Rihanna shares how neurodiversity often goes undeclared in organisations, and what HR and L&D leaders can do even without formal feedback to design learning that truly works for everyone.

What you'll learn:

Why many team members don’t disclose neurodiversity and how that impacts learning

The difference between training and L&D and why it matters

How to start inclusive L&D design with limited data

Rihanna’s go-to framework for evaluating learning effectiveness (yes, we’re talking Kirkpatrick!)

The real impact of unconscious bias training and why it shouldn’t be a “one and done”

How L&D and HR can collaborate to drive cultural change

Building a psychologically safe learning culture from the top down

Power skills your workforce actually needs in 2025

Whether you're in HR, talent, or learning & development, this episode is packed with practical insights, vulnerable stories, and powerful advice to help you rethink how we support every learner.

Guest: Rihanna Lindsay-SmithFollow her on TikTok & Instagram: @rihannagallery

00:00 Understanding Neurodiversity in the Workplace

04:54 The Journey into Learning and Development

09:58 Inclusive Learning Strategies

14:57 Evaluating Training Effectiveness

20:03 Collaboration Between L&D and HR

24:45 Building a Learning Culture

30:02 Continuous Learning and Professional Development

Unlock the secrets of neuroinclusion and build a workplace where every neurodivergent employee can thrive. In this episode of the Plumm Pod, host Georgia Dixon, sits down with Lucy Wilson (Neurodiversity Inclusion Specialist & Founder, Mindshift Empowerment) to explore practical strategies for embedding diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) across the entire employee life cycle from inclusive recruitment and onboarding to performance feedback, advancement and ERG programmes.

Highlights you’ll learn:

Why inclusive job descriptions and skills-based hiring widen your talent pool and boost innovation

How transparent, streamlined interview processes reduce anxiety for autistic and ADHD candidates

Simple onboarding tweaks that cut first-week stress and improve employee retention

The power of structured, bias-free feedback for managers and leaders

Funding and supporting employee resource groups (ERGs) to drive real cultural change

Whether you’re an HR leader, people manager, or business owner, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to create a truly neuro-inclusive workplace and strengthen your overall employee experience.

Welcome to The Plumm Pod, where we dive into the human side of work. This week Georgia sits down with senior people leader Kayleigh Davies to unpack how HR has moved from dusty personnel files to data-driven people experience and why start-ups can’t afford to keep treating culture as a perk wall.

Kayleigh’s journey from ancient-history graduate to AI-sector HR strategist gives her a unique lens on:

- Moving from compliance-heavy personnel to outcome-focused people experience

- The limits of the Ulrich model and the rise of subscription-style employee journeys

- Why “seat at the table” means asking sharper commercial questions, not simply attending the meeting

- Practical ways to diagnose people priorities when the business has none

- Swapping beanbags for measurable impact, turning onboarding scores into revenue wins

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of a People Strategy

02:32 The Evolution of HR

11:13 Navigating the Post-COVID HR Landscape

21:17 Understanding Business Goals

23:01 The Role of People Experience in HR

30:33 Advice for Future HR Leaders

What if your financial health is the key to improving your work performance?

In this powerful episode of The Plum Pod, Georgia is joined by Andrew Mulder, People Director at Nudge, as they explore the often-overlooked connection between financial well-being and employee productivity. From the impact of financial stress on mental health to why businesses should prioritise financial education, Andrew reveals why this topic is essential for a thriving workforce.

Key Learnings:

Financial Well-being Defined: What it truly means and why it's crucial for employees at all income levels.

The Business Case for Financial Education: How it drives retention, reduces absenteeism, and boosts productivity.

Practical Advice for Employers: How to implement financial education programmes on a budget and with global scalability.

Don’t miss out on this insightful conversation ,subscribe to The Plum Pod for more episodes on HR and mental health!

Chapters

00:00:00 – The Surprising Link Between Money and Mental Health

00:03:15 – How Andrew Ended Up in HR by Chance

00:08:45 – Breaking Down Financial Well-being: What It Really Means

00:12:30 – Financial Education: The Missing Piece in Corporate Wellness

00:17:00 – The Problem with 'More Money' as a Solution

00:22:15 – Nudge’s Approach to Financial Well-being Education

00:26:40 – Making Financial Education Accessible Without the Jargon

00:30:10 – Building Leadership Buy-In: The Key to Implementation

00:34:05 – How to Start a Financial Well-being Programme on a Budget

00:38:30 – A Powerful Lesson for Your Future Self

In this episode, Alan, a seasoned HR leader, shares his insights on the emotional journey of navigating change in the workplace. He highlights the difference between change and transition, the importance of acceptance, and why transparency is essential in leadership. Alan also explores how self-awareness and personal growth can transform your leadership style.

If you're an HR professional or leader dealing with change, this episode offers practical advice and deep insights. Subscribe and share this episode with your network!

Chapters:

00:00:00 - Alan's Unexpected HR Journey

00:04:12 - Change vs. Transition: What's the Difference?

00:07:38 - The Power of Acceptance in Leadership

00:13:24 - The Middle: Finding Clarity in Uncertainty

00:16:58 - Trust, Transparency & the Leadership Dilemma

00:21:42 - Personal Growth Through Struggles

00:26:03 - Forgiveness: The Secret to Lasting Change

00:31:08 - The Role of Breath and Self-Care in Leadership

00:35:20 - Giving Yourself Permission to Be Human

HR isn’t protecting people. It’s protecting companies. But what if that’s the problem?

In this raw and eye-opening conversation, Georgia from Access HR sits down with Shane Mays, startup veteran and ER (employee relations) specialist for a brutally honest deep-dive into the real purpose of HR, why it’s broken, and how we can rebuild it from the inside out.

From his beginnings as a software engineer to leading people teams at fast-scaling startups, Shane brings a human-first perspective to the most misunderstood function in business today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why HR still feels like the company’s bodyguard and how to change it

The hidden cost of treating ER as a legal process

How to scale employee relations without burning out

The power of playbooks, trust, and co-creation in leadership

If you’ve ever felt stuck between doing what’s “compliant” and doing what’s right, this episode will shift your thinking, for good.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe and share with someone who needs to hear this.

Chapters

00:00:00 – HR Is Not Here to Protect You

00:01:16 – Meet Shane: From Engineering to HR

00:03:04 – Why He Stayed in People Ops

00:04:36 – What Employee Relations Really Means

00:07:13 – Social Media, Fear & Legal Influence

00:09:17 – Why ER Needs a Human-First Lens

00:11:39 – A Manager’s Mistake: Process Before People

00:16:03 – Building a Legal Wall vs. Human Bridge

00:19:12 – Why Leaders Need a Compass, Not a Policy

00:22:18 – Make Playbooks Public. Remove the Ambush.

00:23:35 – How ER Changes as You Scale

00:25:06 – Teach People How to Eat

00:27:09 – Co-Create Your ER Strategy

00:28:59 – Flexing Your ER Muscle Without the Cases

00:30:34 – You Don’t Need a Pocket Lawyer

00:33:16 – You’ll Never Have All the Answers—And That’s Okay

00:34:26 – The One Thing Shane Would Tell His Younger Self

What does it really take to lead a successful HR team in today’s fast-changing world?

In this episode of The Plumm Pod, Georgia sits down with Lauren McDonagh, Head of People at Soho House, to reveal the realities of building high-performing HR teams.

From creating psychological safety to managing burnout and leading with authenticity, Lauren shares practical insights and personal lessons every HR professional needs to hear.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why HR leaders must lead by example (and why most don’t)

How to create a culture of trust and psychological safety within your team

The power of diversity of thought in driving real innovation

Why personal development and getting uncomfortable are non-negotiable for growth

If you want to be a better leader or build a team that thrives, this conversation is a must-watch.

👉 Subscribe for more conversations on HR, leadership, and mental health.

Chapters

00:00:00 – Welcome to The Plumm Pod

00:02:26 – Was HR Always the Plan?

00:04:55 – The Reality of HR Careers

00:07:01 – How Hospitality Changed My Leadership Style

00:08:45 – Inside Soho House’s People Team

00:09:56 – Leading by Example as an HR Leader

00:11:32 – How We Invest in Our HR Team

00:14:37 – What I Look for When Hiring HR Talent

00:17:53 – Why Discomfort Is the Key to Growth

00:19:56 – Managing Change & Building Trust

00:21:27 – The Biggest Shift in My Leadership Style

00:23:06 – Creating Psychological Safety for Teams

00:24:53 – Balancing Business Goals & People Needs

00:28:30 – Protecting HR Teams from Burnout

00:32:44 – The Truth About Being ‘Busy’ vs ‘Productive’

00:36:18 – Managing Different Personalities Effectively

00:38:55 – The Untold Emotional Load of HR

00:41:14 – Advice to My Younger Self

Every failed strategy starts with one blind spot: the lack of curiosity.

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the power of curiosity as the foundation of successful people strategy. This isn’t just about business, it’s about the decisions that define us as leaders.

Our guest Kenny Temowo shares a piercing insight: if you’re not asking why, you’re already behind. Through a candid conversation, we unravel why making hard choices in leadership starts with understanding what makes your organisation different and why most get it wrong.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why curiosity is the non-negotiable starting point of all great strategy

How leaders should approach hard decisions through contextual insight

The overlooked “Z” that makes or breaks your business direction

Why saying no is more important than saying yes in strategy

If you’ve ever questioned your strategic decisions or want to lead with greater intention, this is the episode to start with.

Subscribe for more episodes that challenge the way you think.

🔔 Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

Chapters:

00:00:00 – The Hidden Power of Curiosity

Why every strategy starts with asking the right questions

00:01:02 – Strategy Is About Saying No

Understanding the difficult trade-offs behind every big decision

00:02:10 – What’s Your ‘Z’?

The one overlooked factor that defines your entire approach

00:03:20 – Getting Strategy Right Starts Here

How self-awareness and context build winning strategies

She didn’t fit the mould, so she became the blueprint.

Keeran Gunnoo is a powerhouse in personal and corporate employer branding, shaping narratives for some of the world’s most recognisable companies, including LinkedIn, Unilever and Flow. In this raw and empowering conversation, she shares how she built a career that broke every rule and why it worked.

From being headhunted by LinkedIn before people knew what LinkedIn was, to being complimented by Barack Obama on her Louboutins, Keeran’s story is as inspiring as it is unconventional.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why squiggly careers aren’t chaotic, they’re strategic

How your reputation is your brand (especially when you're not in the room)

The uncomfortable truths about diversity, employer branding and internal comms

How to build a career and life that align with your values, not societal norms

✨ Subscribe to The Plumm Pod for more honest conversations about HR, wellbeing and careers that don’t follow the script.

⏱️ Chapters

00:00:00 – Intro: She Became the Blueprint

00:01:04 – HR was never the plan

00:02:10 – From cold calls to leadership: the Essex charisma advantage

00:03:27 – Getting headhunted by LinkedIn before it was big

00:04:58 – Meeting Obama & the power of great shoes

00:06:04 – Unilever hired her without an interview

00:07:19 – Becoming a Strategic Career Architect

00:08:31 – Reporting to Chanel’s future CEO

00:10:33 – The importance of working for brands you believe in

00:11:51 – Flow, reproductive health, and brand affinity

00:13:00 – What a squiggly career really means

00:14:44 – Breaking ceilings: race, gender & neurodiversity

00:17:20 – Ditching the fairytale career path

00:20:20 – Culture add, not culture fit

00:21:51 – Why Gen Z are changing career norms

00:23:01 – Internal bias, ATSs, and being mistaken for a man

00:24:58 – Writing job ads that actually speak to humans

00:26:17 – Helping companies overcome DEI friction

00:27:59 – The truth behind Glassdoor reviews

00:29:49 – Who owns comms: HR vs. Marketing

00:33:42 – Creating Unilever’s first editorial team

00:35:11 – Data, communication, and internal trust

00:37:47 – Taking Unilever from #24 to #7 on Glassdoor

00:39:07 – EVP: What’s in it for me?

00:40:35 – Stuck? Give yourself a performance review

00:41:39 – Self-belief and your personal brand

00:42:50 – Audit your energy—don’t stay where you can’t shine

00:43:59 – Final message: If they’re not advocating for you, go

What if HR wasn’t just support... but your biggest brand asset?

In today’s episode, we sit down with Jessie, People Director at one of the UK’s most innovative creative agencies, to uncover how HR can redefine brand strategy from the inside out.

Jessie shares her journey from hairdressing to HR leadership, and how she’s tearing up the traditional rulebook to build a people-first workplace rooted in trust, creativity, and culture.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why onboarding is your most powerful brand moment

How to turn your team into your greatest advocates

The secret to getting buy-in from senior leadership

Why Gen Z are changing everything about workplace culture

This isn’t compliance. This is creativity. This is culture.

And it’s time HR took its seat at the table.

👉 If this inspired you, share it with someone who needs to hear it and don’t forget to subscribe.

Chapters

00:00:00 – The Hairdresser Who Became HR

00:01:45 – Learning the Hard Way in the NHS

00:04:10 – HR IS Brand Strategy

00:05:00 – Bringing Company Values to Life

00:07:35 – Listening: The Most Underrated Strategy

00:09:05 – Building a Culture That Retains

00:11:20 – Why Only 31% Align With Company Values

00:13:00 – Recognition That Actually Works

00:14:45 – From Team Members to Brand Ambassadors

00:16:10 – Designing Culture for Gen Z

00:18:40 – Human-First HR Strategy

00:20:40 – How to Start Thinking Creatively

00:22:00 – The Power of Diverse Teams

00:24:00 – Why Candidates Choose You

00:26:40 – What Gen Z Really Want at Work

00:28:30 – Managers Are the Secret Weapon

00:30:00 – Getting Senior Leadership Buy-In

00:32:40 – What I’d Tell My Younger Self

They’re the most powerful people in your company… and the most overlooked.

In this episode, we sit down with Chelsea, Head of People at Tomorrow, whose approach to middle management has transformed team performance and culture. From scaling challenges to personal breakthroughs, Chelsea reveals what most leaders get wrong about middle managers and what to do about it.

Here’s what you’ll learn

Why middle managers shape your company culture more than your CEO

The real reason managers burn out (and how to stop it)

How Tomorrow built one of the UK’s top workplaces by focusing on its “squeezed middle”

The three powerful qualities Chelsea looks for when identifying future leaders

This isn’t theory. It’s a masterclass in the people strategy most companies ignore, until it’s too late.

👉 Subscribe for more honest, unfiltered conversations with the people rewriting the rules of work.

Chapters

00:00:00 – From Retail Floors to Head of People

00:03:16 – Learning Business From the Inside Out

00:05:13 – Why Middle Managers Hold the Power

00:07:10 – The Hidden Cost of Neglecting Managers

00:09:01 – Embedding Culture Through the Squeezed Middle

00:10:32 – From High Turnover to Top 10 Workplace

00:12:18 – The Mistakes We Made Scaling

00:13:51 – The Power of Monthly Reflection

00:15:36 – Fixing Feedback and Growth Conversations

00:16:55 – Why Radical HR Experiments Sometimes Fail

00:18:53 – Becoming a Manager is a Career Change

00:20:41 – No Training for Micro-Moments

00:22:33 – Avoiding Burnout Through Small Wins

00:24:25 – Building Great Leaders from Within

00:26:09 – The Three C’s of Great Management

00:27:44 – Creating Paths Beyond Management

00:29:35 – Essential Skills, Not Soft Skills

00:31:00 – Growth Plans That Actually Grow People

00:33:03 – Making Purpose Tangible

00:34:43 – The Manager’s Impact on Retention

00:36:33 – Advice to Her Younger Self

In this episode, we sit down with Christine, Head of Talent & People at a pioneering quantum computing start up, to explore her unexpected journey from studying psychology during a global recession to leading people strategy in one of tech's most innovative sectors. Christine shares what it means to bridge the gap between talent acquisition and HR, the challenges of scaling a team from 12 to 100, and why retention is just as strategic as hiring.

We dive into:

Why HR wasn’t the original plan and how Christine found her way back to it

The real differences between recruitment and talent acquisition

How people teams can (and should) collaborate to improve onboarding and retention

Conducting painful but powerful audits to build HR foundations

Mental resilience, imposter syndrome, and defining your leadership philosophy

This episode is packed with candid insights for anyone navigating the intersection of recruitment, people ops, and start up growth.

Whether you're an aspiring HR leader or just wondering how to grow your career in people roles, Christine’s story will inspire and ground you.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:12 Journey into HR and Talent Acquisition

05:16 Understanding the Role of Head of Talent and People

08:46 The Shift from Recruitment to Talent Development

10:54 Collaboration Between Talent Acquisition and HR

13:21 Navigating Imposter Syndrome in HR

15:36 Continuous Learning in the People Space

17:08 Challenges in Transitioning Roles

20:03 Balancing Energy and Empathy in HR

22:39 Team Dynamics and People Operations

25:35 Conducting Audits for Operational Efficiency

28:44 The Importance of Employee Feedback

30:19 Advice for Transitioning Between Roles

36:41 Final Reflections and Advice for the Future

We say we’re “people first”, but candidates can tell when we’re not. This conversation is a reality check for how hiring actually feels in 2025.

In this episode, Marie Chaproniere reveals how she fell into HR from performing arts and why great Talent Acquisition is far more than filling roles. We unpack what a real candidate experience looks like today, the mess, the honesty, and why transparency beats polish every time.

You’ll learn:

The difference between recruitment and true TA and why strategy wins over speed

What “good” candidate experience looks like now (and the red flags to kill immediately)

How to stay human with ATS and AI, you can’t automate empathy

Practical inclusion: accommodations, the “cafeteria” model, and why truth-telling attracts the right people

If this helped you hire better or get hired better subscribe and share this with someone who needs it.

Chapters

00:00:00 — From Dance Studio to HR

00:00:29 — Falling Into TA by Accident

00:02:57 — TA vs Recruitment: The Real Difference

00:04:11 — What “Good” Candidate Experience Means in 2025

00:05:39 — Tech’s Limits: You Can’t Automate Empathy

00:07:16 — Public Call-Outs & Why Brand Behaviour Matters

00:08:34 — Small Wins in Hypergrowth Hiring

00:09:56 — Radical Transparency in Job Ads

00:11:43 — Attracting for Fit, Not Volume

00:13:28 — Truth-Telling Cultures Beat Perfect Stories

00:14:43 — Inclusion by Default: Real Accommodations

00:16:41 — The “Cafeteria” Model for Interviews

00:19:30 — Where to Communicate Adjustments (Beyond JDs)

00:21:33 — What Great Looks Like: Real Examples

00:24:33 — Start With an Audit: Language, Process, Data

00:26:38 — Map the Bad to Design the Good

00:27:17 — Sharing Interview Questions Ahead of Time

00:28:44 — Safe to Fail: Culture That Grows People

00:30:36 — Using AI Well (Without Losing Yourself)

00:31:15 — Metaview, Notes & Better Feedback Loops

00:32:39 — Advice to My Younger Self

00:33:58 — Choosing Authenticity (Even When Scary)

What if it all works out?

In this episode, we chat with Abigail Cooper, People Partner, who shares invaluable insights on scaling teams and HR strategy. Abigail Cooper's journey from admin roles to shaping internal communication and succession planning provides a powerful blueprint for businesses navigating the future of work.

You’ll learn:

The core principles of internal comms that will keep your team engaged and aligned.

Why managers are key to successful HR communication (and how to train them).

How to create clarity and reduce overwhelm with a simple, scalable communication framework.

The key to creating psychological safety and a resilient leadership culture.

If you’re ready to rethink your internal comms and team strategies, subscribe for more impactful HR insights.

Chapters:

00:00:00 — From Admin to HR Strategy

00:02:30 — Confidence in the Chaos

00:04:02 — Internal Comms: A New Era

00:06:56 — The HR Role Shift

00:09:55 — Internal Comms Framework

00:12:25 — Connecting with Managers

00:14:18 — Overcoming the Overwhelm

00:16:58 — Communication Cadence

00:18:53 — The One Source of Truth

00:21:40 — Understanding Your Team’s Needs

00:23:10 — Planning for Success

00:25:40 — Storytelling for HR

00:27:39 — Scaling for the Future

00:29:12 — What’s Missing in Your Strategy?

00:31:10 — Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

00:34:18 — What If It All Works Out?

In this episode, Claire shares her journey from HR to well-being strategist, revealing why setting boundaries is key to both personal and professional success.

Claire talks about the challenges of overcommitting and how finding balance in the workplace is more crucial than ever, especially after the pandemic.

You'll learn:

Why well-being should be prioritised in the workplace to boost productivity

How to set and maintain boundaries without feeling guilty

Why internal comms play a huge role in employee satisfaction and engagement

The importance of knowing your worth and advocating for your needs

Don't miss this insightful conversation, subscribe for more episodes and share with a leader who needs a plan, not a panic!

Chapters:

00:00:00 — The Road to HR

00:02:30 — Why HR Wasn’t What I Expected

00:04:02 — Internal Comms: The Emotional Infrastructure

00:06:56 — HR’s Evolving Role in Well-Being

00:09:55 — Why Well-Being Comes First

00:12:25 — The Shift from Hustle to Sustainable Work

00:14:18 — Creating Micro Boundaries for Maximum Impact

00:16:58 — How Stress Impacts Productivity

00:18:53 — Fighting the People-Pleasing Cycle

00:21:40 — Advocating for Yourself at Work

00:23:10 — Leading with Vulnerability

00:25:40 — Boundary Setting Without Guilt

00:27:39 — Why Everyone Needs Boundaries

00:29:12 — How to Build Healthy Work Relationships

00:31:10 — What I Wish I Knew About Boundaries Earlier

00:33:40 — The Power of Saying ‘No’

When 42% of leaders leave without warning, most companies panic. Amanda, finance turned HR strategist and chartered manager, explains how to future-proof your team before the vacancy hits.

In this episode, we unpack practical, data-driven succession planning, why “accidental managers” are costing you growth, and how HR earns a real seat at the table by thinking like a business owner.

You’ll learn:

What succession planning really is (and isn’t) and how to start it in a week

The data, dashboards and conversations HR must run to stop talent gaps

How to develop managers who can actually lead (not just do the job)

Why cross-generational hiring (T-Levels, grads) keeps you relevant in an AI world

The underrated skills: mediation, communication, reflection, resilience

If this helped, subscribe for more episodes and share with a leader who needs a plan, not a panic.

Chapters

00:00:00 — Chance, Not Plan: Amanda’s HR Origin

00:02:18 — Thrown In: Studying While Doing the Job

00:04:50 — Succession Defined: Your People Contingency Plan

00:06:56 — Scaling Playbook: Building Talent “Our Way”

00:07:58 — From Gut to Data: Decisions That Stick

00:09:55 — HR at the Table: Think Like an Owner

00:12:25 — Why Most Succession Fails (And Who’s Missing)

00:14:18 — Planning in Uncertainty: Hire the Future In

00:16:58 — Maintain vs. Hyper-Scale: Knowing Your Path

00:18:53 — Career Moats: Learning, Credentials, Confidence

00:19:50 — Reflection as Strategy: Walk, Think, Improve

00:23:10 — Accidental Managers: The Hidden Cost

00:27:00 — Next-Gen Leadership: Firm, Human, Resilient

00:29:12 — Post-COVID Reality: Psychological Safety Pays

00:31:10 — Hard Talks, Soft Skills: Mediate & Communicate

00:34:18 — One Thing I’d Tell My Younger Self

We say we want “nice” cultures, then wonder why people burn out.

Tiger de Souza, People leader at Samaritans, reveals how charities and mission-driven teams can balance purpose, limited resources, and real human support without losing clarity or standards.

What you’ll learn:

Why “nice” cultures exhaust people and why kind cultures perform

The 4 leadership principles Samaritans use (accountability, empowerment, inclusion, connection)

How to equip managers for monthly, meaningful performance conversations

Hybrid/volunteer culture at scale: 20,000 volunteers, new norms, real psychological safety

Where AI helps ops, but can’t replace human connection in crisis

If you lead people (in charities or beyond), this conversation will reset how you think about culture, performance, and wellbeing.

👉 If this helped, subscribe and share with a leader who needs it.

What happens when you climb to the top of your career… but lose yourself along the way?

In this powerful conversation, Matt shares how he accidentally fell into HR, rose through global roles at UBS, and then faced the devastating reality of burnout that cost him his health, career, and identity.We uncover:How recruitment turned into a global HR careerThe hidden drivers behind burnout and why so many ignore the signsWhy HR professionals are at the highest risk of emotional exhaustionThe three “buckets of burnout” and how to protect yourself from themPractical tools to set boundaries and recover before it’s too lateThis is not just an HR story, it’s a human story. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, detached, or on the edge of burnout, this episode might just change the way you approach your work and your life.Chapters00:00 – Falling into HR by accident01:00 – Recruitment, sales pressure & global moves02:40 – UBS opportunity & career breakthrough04:30 – Burnout disguised as success06:20 – The toxic drive of “not good enough”08:00 – What burnout really feels like09:45 – Therapy, coaching & rebuilding identity11:30 – Discovering the power of coaching13:10 – Why HR faces higher burnout risks15:20 – The breaking point moment16:40 – Catching stress before it becomes burnout18:20 – Signs of exhaustion & irritability20:00 – Detachment, cynicism & losing purpose23:20 – The tension at the heart of HR25:10 – The three buckets of burnout explained28:40 – Purpose, values & dangerous overcommitment32:00 – Overwhelm vs. burnout – the difference34:10 – Weekly check-ins to stay vigilant35:40 – Boundaries, respect & saying no37:20 – Peak performance through rest39:20 – Advice to my younger self: “Look at the evidence”

What if the key to retention, engagement, and authentic leadership isn’t perks or pay but community?

In today’s episode, I sit down with David Hughes, Global Head of Talent at Costa Coffee, whose journey took him from competing for Great Britain in athletics to leading people, purpose, and community in one of the world’s most recognisable brands.

We explore:

How sport shaped his leadership philosophy and resilience.

Why community is the most overlooked driver of engagement and retention.

The rising influence of Gen Z and their demand for authenticity.

How brands can avoid “whitewashing” and build trust through meaningful action.

This is a masterclass in understanding why authenticity, purpose, and connection will decide the future of work.

👉 If you found this conversation valuable, subscribe for more episodes and share this with someone who needs to hear it.

Chapters

00:00:29 – HR: Planned or by chance?

00:01:27 – From GB athlete to HR leader

00:02:19 – How sport shaped leadership

00:04:04 – Leaving athletics & finding purpose

00:05:51 – From recruitment to Boots & HR

00:07:03 – What community really means

00:09:55 – The data: community reduces turnover by 50%

00:11:23 – Why Gen Z changed everything

00:12:45 – Community, charity & the HR function

00:14:42 – Building local impact: the SEN school project

00:16:24 – Skills vs. qualifications: the future of work

00:18:38 – The four pillars of talent at Costa

00:20:11 – What EVP really means (and why most get it wrong)

00:23:09 – Authenticity vs. whitewashing in employer branding

00:24:59 – Gen Z: why they can’t be fooled

00:27:03 – The real cost of ignoring community

00:29:47 – A life-changing trip to Colombia

00:31:54 – How to convince senior stakeholders

00:33:02 – Advice to my younger self: mistakes & fourth gear

00:34:55 – Why slowing down creates better work

00:36:10 – Closing reflections on purpose and belonging

In this episode, Alice Stone shares her journey from HR apprentice and young mum to People Director and why a truly human-centred approach beats rigid rules. We unpack the real difference between legal flexible working and lived flexibility, how to kill presenteeism, and the systems that create safety, trust and performance.

You’ll learn:

• Legal vs lived flexibility and what high-trust cultures actually do

• How to measure impact (pulse checks, outcomes over hours, retention signals)

• The manager shift: from micromanaging time to coaching for results

• Practical playbook: job-sharing, hybrid done well, “Level 10” meetings, employee voice

If this gave you something useful, subscribe and share it with a leader who needs to hear it.

Chapters:

00:00:00 — Plan or Chance? Alice’s Start

00:00:20 — From Midwife Dreams to HR

00:02:21 — Apprenticeships, Not One Path

00:03:18 — Becoming a Mum Changed HR

00:04:19 — Kind vs Nice at Work

00:05:12 — Flexibility: Law vs Reality

00:06:20 — Job-Sharing, Hybrid, Wellness Days

00:07:58 — What Flexible Cultures Feel Like

00:09:57 — Trust Adults, Measure Outcomes

00:11:45 — Productivity Gains, Not Presenteeism

00:13:52 — Winning Stakeholders: Speak Their Language

00:15:54 — Presenteeism & Sick-While-Working Trap

00:17:11 — Outcomes Over Hours, Anywhere Work

00:18:52 — Safety First: “If You’re Ill, Rest”

00:20:58 — Spot Burnout: Pulse & Training

00:22:44 — Define Flex Here: What We Celebrate

00:23:54 — Employer Brand: Compete on People

00:25:34 — Retention Proof & Real Support

00:27:28 — Building Safety: Ways-of-Working Labs

00:30:11 — What Is a Level 10 Meeting?

00:31:30 — From ‘How Do We…?’ to ‘We Will’

00:33:42 — Advice to My Younger Self

Working parents aren’t the exception, they’re half your workforce.
In this episode, Becki Nazareth (L&D leader, turned working parent & carer specialist) shares what really breaks and fixes the experience for parents at work, from policy basics to culture, flexibility and line manager reality.

You’ll learn:

• Why policy is just the foundation and what proactive support really looks like

• How to educate “accidental managers” and build inclusive, flexible teams that perform

• The return to work gap: identity shifts, re-induction, and using the SCARF model for certainty

• What data leaders need (and how to get it) to win the case for flexibility

If this helped you, subscribe and share it with a leader who needs to hear it.

Chapters (Timestamps)

00:00:00 — People Work: Plan or Chance?

00:00:36 — From Teaching to L&D to HR

00:02:23 — Why Becki Backed Working Parents

00:04:10 — Who Counts: Parents and Carers

00:05:36 — Policy Shifts & Systemic Gaps

00:07:20 — Start With Policy, Don’t Stop There

00:09:03 — The Manager Mindset Shift

00:11:12 — Beyond One-Off Workshops

00:12:40 — Spaces That Actually Help (ERGs, Talks)

00:14:05 — What “Doing It Well” Looks Like

00:16:00 — The Identity Shock of Return

00:17:35 — SCARF & Creating Certainty

00:19:42 — Reactive vs Proactive HR

00:21:10 — Re-Induction: Onboarding… Again

00:23:22 — Hybrid, Mandates & Real Flexibility

00:25:24 — Win Leaders With Data

00:27:28 — Measure What Happens After Return

00:29:28 — New Stages: School & Holidays

00:30:51 — One Piece of Career Advice

00:31:37 — Know Your Values, Decide Faster

00:32:20 — Closing Thanks

A career in HR isn’t about formal training, it’s about skills you already have.

In today’s episode, Rosalinda Buttice shares her remarkable journey from barista to Head of People Operations at Pension B. She talks about how the skills she developed in hospitality have shaped her approach to leadership and people management in the world of HR.

Key Takeaways:

The power of interpersonal skills in leadership, from hospitality to HR

How leadership is the most transferable skill for success, and why it’s key to building trust within teams

Why adaptability is crucial in the fast-paced world of HR, and how you can start practicing it today

The importance of prioritisation in both hospitality and HR to stay ahead in a constantly changing environment

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, subscribe and share this episode with someone who needs to hear Rosalinda’s inspiring journey!

Chapters:

00:00:00 From Barista to HR

00:01:59 The Importance of Mentorship

00:04:03 What are Transferable Skills?

00:06:22 Top Skills from Hospitality to HR

00:08:07 Building Human Connections in HR

00:09:33 The Power of Leadership

00:11:43 Creating a Circle of Safety

00:13:33 Leadership Skills Beyond the Workplace

00:16:59 Skills Needed for the Future of HR

00:18:12 How to Be More Adaptable in HR

00:19:12 The Art of Prioritization

00:23:20 Building Bridges Between Teams

00:25:01 How to Influence Senior Stakeholders

00:26:33 The Importance of Being Yourself

00:29:01 The One Skill to Focus On Today

00:30:50 Advice to My Younger Self

00:32:05 Closing Thoughts

Subscribe, share and stay tuned for more insights.

She lost everything, but refused to lose herself.
After surviving domestic abuse, Chloe Wallace rebuilt her life from scratch, turning pain into purpose. Today she’s a trauma informed HR consultant specialising in preventing workplace sexual misconduct and her framework is transforming how companies protect their people.

In this episode, Chloe opens up about:

• The truth about escaping abuse and finding independence through work

• Why most organisations still get harassment prevention wrong

• How her CEASE Framework® helps leaders create truly safe cultures

• The rise of AI-driven misogyny and what HR must do next

This is one of the most powerful conversations we’ve ever had on The Plumm Podcast.
If it moved you, subscribe, share, and help us keep these stories seen and heard.

Chapters

00:00:00 — From Chemistry to HR: The Unexpected Start

00:01:25 — Falling Into HR and Finding Purpose

00:02:40 — A Secret Life of Survival

00:04:50 — Escaping Abuse & Rebuilding Independence

00:06:10 — Turning Trauma Into a Calling

00:07:00 — Prevention vs Deterrence: The Big Misunderstanding

00:08:40 — The Real Psychology of Misconduct

00:10:00 — Why Bystander Training Matters

00:11:30 — What Sexual Harassment Actually Looks Like

00:13:55 — A Real Case That Bankrupted a Company

00:15:40 — “It Doesn’t Happen Here” — The Dangerous Myth

00:16:50 — Introducing the SEAS Framework

00:18:30 — Call It Out. Educate. Assess. Strengthen.

00:20:56 — What To Do When It’s a Third Party

00:23:20 — How to Handle Disclosures with Care

00:25:07 — Changing Mindsets Through Real Conversations

00:26:50 — AI, Deepfakes & The New Age of Sexism

00:28:15 — The Future of HR: Specialists Over Generalists

00:30:00 — Why NDAs Are Ending—and Why It Matters

00:31:50 — Choosing Purpose Over Fear

00:33:50 — Education, Empathy & Real Change

00:34:28 — Advice to My Younger Self

If half your workforce will face it, why is it still taboo?

Today Margaret Wood, a menopausal transition facilitator, dismantles the myths, explains the brain science, and shows leaders how to stop losing brilliant women at their peak.

You’ll hear how menopause actually shows up (it’s not just hot flushes), why men must be in the conversation, and the simple, practical moves any company can make this quarter.

We also talk about “menopause concealment”, early menopause, and the surprising upside: the post-menopausal “upgrade”.

In this episode:

What menopause is (and isn’t). Symptoms differ wildly, from heat to feeling cold

The brain changes: why mood, memory and confidence can dip, and how to respond

Culture over policy: moving beyond desk fans to real psychological safety

The business case: retention, reputation and productivity you can’t ignore

Bringing men in: how mixed-group education shifts behaviour fast

Post-menopause power: why many women hit a new gear and how to harness it

If this helped you lead better, subscribe and share with a manager who needs it.

Chapters:

00:00:15 — Chance, Not a Plan

01:08:00 — Inviting Men Into the Room

02:59:00 — Menopause, Simply Explained

04:35:00 — One Size Doesn’t Fit Anyone

05:33:00 — Hot… Or Freezing?

07:09:00 — Education Over Assumptions

09:21:00 — The Cost of Getting It Wrong

11:46:00 — Proactive, Not Performative

13:15:00 — It’s the Brain, Not Just Heat

15:06:00 — The Epiphany: Mixed Groups

16:26:00 — Early Menopause Happens

17:51:00 — IVF & Induced Menopause

19:39:00 — Concealment & Confidence Dips

21:16:00 — The Upgrade: Brain Renovation

22:57:00 — From Chaos to Rewire

24:56:00 — Support Now, Strength Later

26:50:00 — When Joy Goes Missing

28:02:00 — How to Start, Today

29:55:00 — This Isn’t ‘Nice To Have’

31:15:00 — The Career Jungle, Not Ladder

They’re not lazy. They’re anxious and misunderstood.
In this powerful episode, Jessamine Ringer breaks down what every leader needs to know about Gen Z and the future of work. From why this generation values purpose over prestige to how managers can bridge the gap through empathy, clarity, and coaching, Jessamine exposes what’s really happening between generations in the workplace.

You’ll learn:

• Why Gen Z behave differently and what shaped them

• How to manage with empathy without lowering standards

• The three things every young employee actually wants

• How to build confidence, resilience, and innovation in your team

If you lead people or plan to, this conversation will change how you see the next decade of work.
Subscribe and share to help others lead better.

Chapters

00:00:00 — Was HR Ever the Plan?

00:01:22 — Falling in Love with Coaching

00:02:57 — Why Early Careers Need Coaching Now

00:04:37 — The Power of Knowing Your Values

00:05:34 — How Managers Can Really Help

00:06:45 — Understanding Gen Z’s Context

00:08:30 — Growing Up Online: Anxiety & Screens

00:09:47 — Why “We Just Got On With It” Doesn’t Work

00:11:14 — Building Inter-Generational Intelligence

00:13:36 — How Curiosity Builds Better Managers

00:15:49 — Coaching Early Careers to Push Back

00:18:06 — Clarity, Confidence & Communication

00:19:52 — Purpose, Wellbeing & Money: The Real Priorities

00:23:36 — The Truth About Money Anxiety

00:25:42 — Why Gen Z Care About Wellbeing

00:27:55 — How Exhausted Leaders Lose Impact

00:31:01 — The Iceberg Model of Self-Awareness

00:32:43 — Managers Aren’t Trained to Manage People

00:35:03 — Coaching the Future Workforce

00:37:06 — Advice to My Younger Self