HR Voices Podcast

hrvoices
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Welcome to the HR Voices Podcast, a podcast designed to bring the UK HR community and businesses together. The podcast will be informative, with lots of helpful tips and ideas to help you run your business. Being an HR Independent Consultant can be quite lonely. This is why HR Independents (HRi), the UK body for Independent HR and People professionals has created a home and community for HR Indies. The HR Voices podcast will be discussing hot topics relating to HR and business. This will support HR Independent and People Professionals and the businesses they support. We will be bringing you practical tips, expert views and your views. Join Mary Asante, the Chief Executive of HRi and Charlotte Allfrey, Operations Director of HRi and their expert guests for engaging discussions. We would love to hear from you and for you to get more involved. If you have topics you would like us to discuss, contact us via hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk Learn more about HR Independents – HRi at: https://hrindependents.co.uk/about-us/ or connect with us on LinkedIn: hr independents linkedin page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hr-independents/ Hosts: www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante and https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey Success Together.

  1. Episode 61: Confidence in Employment Law: What Independent HR Consultants Really Bring to the Table Guest: Susi O’Brien, O’Brien HR

    27 OCT

    Episode 61: Confidence in Employment Law: What Independent HR Consultants Really Bring to the Table Guest: Susi O’Brien, O’Brien HR

    HR Voices Podcast – Episode 61 Topic: Confidence in Employment Law: What Independent HR Consultants Really Bring to the Table Guest: Susi O’Brien, O’Brien HR Host: Mary Asante, HR Independents Release Date: 03/11/2025 🎧 Episode Overview: In this episode, Mary Asante sits down with Susi O’Brien, employment law specialist and founder of O’Brien HR, to explore how independent HR consultants support businesses through complex workplace issues — with confidence, clarity, and care. Susi shares her journey from senior in-house HR roles to launching her consultancy in 2022, and the critical role independent HR consultants play in helping small businesses manage people risks, stay legally compliant, and support their teams with humanity and fairness. With practical examples, legal know-how, and a refreshingly honest take on real-life HR challenges, this episode is a must-listen for businesses looking to understand the real value of engaging a trusted HR partner. In This Episode: ✅ What makes independent HR consultants uniquely valuable to small and medium-sized businesses ✅ How employment law expertise can reduce legal risks and sleepless nights ✅ The power of tailored, practical advice – not just policy templates ✅ Real-life stories: Redundancy done right and short-time working in action ✅ Flexible working styles: Retainers, projects, and pay-as-you-go support ✅ Why employee experience directly impacts tribunal risks ✅ Helping businesses feel in control – not overwhelmed – by HR decisions 💼 Topics Covered: HR consultancy for smaller charities and businesses Merging employment law with practical, people-centered solutions When and why to bring in HR support (hint: don’t wait for a crisis!) Avoiding disputes through respectful and transparent processes Confidence, not control: How great HR advice empowers employers Why engaging HR support early is better than waiting until it’s “messy” Top 3 Tips from Susi O’Brien: Use employment law as a tool – not a threat. It’s there to support good business decisions, not block them. Respect the business owner’s role. Great consultants guide and empower – they don’t take over. Reduce the chance of legal claims by focusing on employee experience. If people feel heard and respected, disputes rarely escalate. 📣 Listen & Engage: If you found this episode helpful, please: ✔️ Subscribe to HR Voices ✔️ Leave a review or comment ✔️ Share with your HR or leadership network 📩 Got questions or want to suggest a future topic? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 Visit: www.hrindependents.co.uk

    34 min
  2. Episode 60: HR Voices with Nicci Birley — How Great HR Consultants Add Value to Your Business

    13 OCT

    Episode 60: HR Voices with Nicci Birley — How Great HR Consultants Add Value to Your Business

    HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support. Hosted by Mary Asante | HR Independents (HRi) 📅 Release Date: 13th October 2025 🎧 Episode 60: HR Voices with Nicci Birley — How Great HR Consultants Add Value to Your Business  👤 Guest: Nicci Birley, Cornerstone Resources In This Episode: Host Mary Asante welcomes the brilliant Nicci Birley, co-founder of Cornerstone Resources, to explore the true value that HR consultants bring to the clients and communities they serve. Nicci shares her journey from corporate HR to running a growing HR consultancy with her husband Rob Birley, supporting a wide range of small businesses, charities, and faith-based organisations across the UK. Together, they unpack: 🔍 The diverse services HR consultants provide – from recruitment to redundancy, and everything in between 🧩 Why tailoring HR support to each client’s culture and needs is critical to impact 💡 How HR consultants can use insight, empathy, and external perspective to unlock opportunities for clients 🤝 The importance of proactive relationships, monthly check-ins, and bringing fresh ideas even when “nothing seems wrong” 🧠 Managing complexity, safeguarding responsibilities, and supporting clients through tough scenarios — including personal conflicts within family-run businesses 🛟 Why self-care and community matter for consultants — and how networks like HRi make a real difference Key Takeaways: ✅ HR consultants offer more than just policies — they bring clarity, perspective, and care ✅ Tailored support based on real listening creates lasting value ✅ Proactive conversations often uncover hidden challenges and solutions ✅ Self-awareness and ongoing learning are essential to sustainable consulting ✅ Being part of a trusted HR network, like HRi, provides powerful backup and peace of mind Top Tips from Nicci Birley: Build a strong network – Don’t go it alone. Surround yourself with other indies and trusted professionals. Keep learning – Stay on top of legal changes, best practices, and industry trends to offer up-to-date, credible advice. See it through your client’s eyes – Step into their shoes to deliver practical, empathetic support with impact. 💬 Listen & Engage: Loved this episode? 📩 Got a topic suggestion or want to be a guest? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 More episodes & resources: www.hrindependents.co.uk Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast with your network of HR professionals. Thank you for listening — and for showing up, not just as professionals, but as people.

    35 min
  3. Episode 59: HR Voices with Theresa Cooper – The Real Value of HR Consultancy

    29 SEPT

    Episode 59: HR Voices with Theresa Cooper – The Real Value of HR Consultancy

    🎙️ HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support Host: Mary Asante | HR Independents Episode 59: HR Voices with Theresa Cooper – The Real Value of HR Consultancy Release Date: 29th September 2025 🎧 Episode Summary: In this insightful episode, Mary Asante sits down with Theresa Cooper, founder of Cooperative HR, to unpack the real value of HR consultancy. Together, they challenge outdated perceptions of HR, explore the breadth of services consultants provide, and reveal how flexible, proactive support can protect and empower businesses of all sizes. Whether you're a business owner, a team leader, or a fellow HR consultant, this episode gives you a practical look at what HR consultancy really looks like — and why it's about so much more than policies and paperwork. 💼 In This Episode: 🧭 Understanding HR Consultancy Today - What HR consultants actually do (and what they don’t) - Why good HR goes beyond templates and tick-boxes - The flexibility, cost savings, and strategic value of external support 🤝 How HR Consultants Work With Businesses - Supporting SMEs without in-house HR - Collaborating with internal teams on specialist projects - Adding value across the full employee lifecycle 🧠 The Consultant Mindset - The power of lived experience, industry variety, and independent thinking - Building client trust through honesty, clarity, and boundary setting - When to say "no" to work that doesn’t align with your values 📣 Lessons & Tips from Theresa’s Journey - Why listening to what clients aren’t saying is just as important - Using language like “we” to build true partnership - How to help clients make confident, informed decisions — even the hard ones 🛠️ Top 3 Tips for Engaging with HR Consultants 1. We’re not just about policies — consultants provide real-time, hands-on support. 2. We help you sleep at night — mitigating risk, reducing stress, and saving money. 3. We’re trusted partners — a sounding board with perspective and no internal agenda. 💬 Quotable Moments: "Just because you can pay someone off, doesn’t mean you should." "HR is about people — the human side of business — and treating them with fairness and transparency." "You’re not just hiring me — you’re accessing a whole community of experts through HRi." 🎧 Listen & Engage If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with your network. Got questions or want to suggest a future guest? 📩 Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 Visit: www.hrindependents.co.uk

    44 min
  4. Episode 58: The Human Behind the Professional: Highlights from Episodes 53–57

    15 SEPT

    Episode 58: The Human Behind the Professional: Highlights from Episodes 53–57

    🎧 HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support. Host: Mary Asante | HR Independents (HRi) Release Date: 15 September 2025 Episode 58: Title: The Human Behind the Professional: Highlights from Episodes 53–57 🎙️ Episode Summary: If you’ve missed Episodes 53 to 57, this is your shortcut to some of our most human, heartfelt, and practical conversations yet. In this special recap edition, host Mary Asante reflects on the deeply personal and professional themes explored over the last five episodes. From building confidence and visibility to creating inclusive workplaces and breaking executive isolation, this episode brings together insights that remind us: HR is human work—and that includes us too. Whether you’re a consultant, leader, or solo HR practitioner, these takeaways will help you grow your impact while taking better care of yourself and the people you serve. 🔍 Episode Highlights: 🎤 Ep. 53 – Psychometrics with Katy McMinn Explore how tools like DISC and MBTI can support personal growth, team dynamics, and leadership. Katy shares practical advice for consultants and businesses alike, including why accreditation and self-awareness matter more than labels. 🎤 Ep. 54 – Visibility & Storytelling with Pippa Tanko Your story matters more than your image. Learn how to build trust and attract aligned clients by showing up as your real self—fear, flaws, and all. 🎤 Ep. 55 – Confidence & Inner Voice with Linda Gent Linda breaks down how limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome hold us back—and what to do about it. From journaling to reframing, this episode is packed with tools to help you lead with confidence. 🎤 Ep. 56 – Neurodiversity Inclusion with Charlie Hart Charlie brings lived experience and HR expertise to the conversation on neurodiversity. Discover how small changes in language, policies, and mindset can make workplaces more inclusive for everyone. 🎤 Ep. 57 – Mental Wealth with Mike Pagan Isolation isn’t just lonely—it’s dangerous. Mike shares how leaders and HR professionals can build mental wealth by developing strong support networks, creating psychological safety, and picking up the phone when it matters most. 🧠 Key Themes Across Episodes 53–57: ✅ Self-awareness is foundational – From psychometrics to journaling, knowing yourself is the first step to leading others. ✅ Authenticity is strategy – Visibility and vulnerability build connection and trust in business. ✅ Inclusion is a culture, not a policy – Listening to lived experience is vital for real change. ✅ Confidence can be built – Your inner voice can be trained to support you, not sabotage you. ✅ Support is success – Mental wealth and community matter as much as strategy and skills. 📣 Listen & Engage Catch up on any of the episodes you missed—or revisit your favourites for another dose of inspiration and encouragement. 💬 We’d love to hear from you! Got feedback, questions, or guest suggestions? 📩 Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 More insights and episodes: www.hrindependents.co.uk 📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with other independent HR professionals.

    26 min
  5. Episode 57: HR Voices with Mike Pagan — Building Mental Wealth and Breaking Executive Isolation

    1 SEPT

    Episode 57: HR Voices with Mike Pagan — Building Mental Wealth and Breaking Executive Isolation

    HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support. Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi.  DATE: 1st September 2025 Episode 57: HR Voices with Mike Pagan — Building Mental Wealth and Breaking Executive Isolation Guest: Mike Pagan, Executive Coach, Author & Mental Wealth Advocate 🎙️ In this episode: Mary Asante is joined by executive coach and performance expert Mike Pagan to explore the concept of mental wealth—and how isolation at the top levels of leadership can quietly erode wellbeing and effectiveness. From solopreneurs to C-suite executives, many leaders struggle with executive isolation, often silently. Mike offers practical tools, real stories, and powerful strategies for building support networks that protect and enhance our personal and professional wellbeing. This is a must-listen for HR professionals, consultants, and business leaders looking to support themselves and their people more meaningfully. 🧠 What You’ll Learn: 🔓 What Is Mental Wealth? The difference between mental health and mental wealth Why isolation equals mental poverty—and how to avoid it The importance of having a proactive support team around you 👥 Executive Isolation & Why It’s So Common Why asking for help still feels like weakness for many leaders Why HR professionals often look after everyone except themselves How hybrid work can increase (not decrease) isolation 💬 How to Build Your Support Network The “mental wealth team” audit: who truly has your back? Understanding the 1–10 scale of support—why most people have few (if any) 8s, 9s or 10s It’s okay if relationships aren’t equal—support goes both ways, but not always evenly 🏗️ Creating Cultures of Connection The role of psychological safety in encouraging openness Bringing back meaningful team time—not just for work, but for relationships Why isolation can happen in any setting—even an open office 📞 Small Actions with Huge Impact Why you should pick up the phone—not just send a text The ripple effect of checking in on someone Human social responsibility: the HSR that matters more than CSR ✨ Key Takeaways: ✅ Mental wealth is about investing in relationships that support your growth and wellbeing ✅ Executive isolation is real—but it doesn’t have to be inevitable ✅ HR needs to model and protect its own self-care, not just deliver it for others ✅ A strong peer network is critical, especially in hybrid and solo work environments ✅ One phone call can change (or even save) a life—don’t delay it 🔝 Top Tips from Mike Pagan: Audit your mental wealth team – Write down who’s in your support network, and score them 1–10 for commitment. Do this regularly to track and grow your “wealth.” Create psychological safety – Build spaces at work where people can ask for help without fear or shame. Start with yourself. Pick up the phone – Don’t wait. If someone’s on your mind, call them. Your timing might be more needed than you’ll ever know. 🎧 Listen & Engage Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with your HR network or leadership team. 📩 Have a question or want to suggest a topic? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 Discover more episodes and resources: www.hrindependents.co.uk

    36 min
  6. Episode 56: HR Voices with Charlie Hart — Neurodiversity Inclusion at Work

    18 AUG

    Episode 56: HR Voices with Charlie Hart — Neurodiversity Inclusion at Work

    HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support. Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi.  DATE: 18th August 2025 Episode 56: HR Voices with Charlie Hart — Neurodiversity Inclusion at Work Guest: Charlie Hart, Neurodiversity Inclusion Speaker, Writer & Advocate 🎙️ In this episode: Host Mary Asante is joined by the passionate and insightful Charlie Hart, neurodiversity inclusion speaker and former HR analyst, also known online as Awesome Charlie. Diagnosed as autistic at age 42, Charlie brings a powerful mix of personal lived experience and professional HR expertise to explore how we can create truly inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals. Together, they unpack the real meaning of neurodiversity and explore what true inclusion looks like—not just in policy but in everyday practice, culture, and conversations. From recruitment to hybrid working, this episode is full of practical advice and honest reflection. 🧠 What You’ll Learn: 🧬 What Is Neurodiversity (and Why It Matters)? Understanding the concept and movement of neurodiversity Everyone has a unique brain—neurodiversity includes all of us Context matters: the same person may function differently depending on environment and support 🤝 What Inclusion Really Means Creating environments where people are not just present but welcomed Supporting neurodivergent employees isn’t about special treatment—it’s about accessibility Building psychologically safe cultures through empathy and flexibility 🚧 Workplace Barriers (and How to Remove Them) The unseen challenges: sensory overload, verbal instructions, scattered meetings Why lived experience should inform policies—not assumptions The power of communication preferences and scheduling that works for humans, not just processes 🛠️ Practical Strategies That Make a Difference Informal tweaks vs. “reasonable adjustments” Collaboration between employees and managers—not confrontation Why conversations should be human, not legalistic 📈 Why It’s Everyone’s Business Inclusive practices benefit all employees, not just neurodivergent ones How to support individuals without singling them out or creating more stigma Encouraging storytelling, ERGs, and active listening to embed inclusion ✨ Key Takeaways: ✅ Neurodiversity is natural—and valuable in every workplace ✅ Inclusion isn’t about policies; it’s about people and practices ✅ Simple changes like advance interview questions or respecting communication preferences can have huge impact ✅ Don’t assume—ask ✅ Believing people when they share their needs is the foundation of an inclusive culture 🔝 Top Tips from Charlie Hart: Allow communication preferences – Encourage people to state how they prefer to be contacted in email signatures or profiles. Send interview questions in advance – It helps everyone, not just neurodivergent candidates. Believe us – When someone says they’re struggling with an environment or process, trust them. It’s not about drama—it’s about dignity. 🎧 Listen & Engage Did you enjoy this episode? Please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your HR and leadership community. 📩 Have questions or suggestions? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 Discover more episodes and insights: www.hrindependents.co.uk

    47 min
  7. Episode 55: HR Voices with Linda Gent — From Limiting Beliefs to Building Confidence

    4 AUG

    Episode 55: HR Voices with Linda Gent — From Limiting Beliefs to Building Confidence

    HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support. Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi.  DATE: 4th August 2025 Episode 55: HR Voices with Linda Gent — From Limiting Beliefs to Building Confidence Guest: Linda Gent, Executive Coach & HR Professional 🎙️ In this episode: Mary Asante is joined by the brilliant Linda Gent, executive coach and seasoned HR professional, to explore the inner voice that holds many of us back—limiting beliefs—and how to transform them into the confidence we need to thrive. Linda shares how these beliefs take root, from childhood memories to difficult work experiences, and how they often evolve into what we know as imposter syndrome. Through powerful coaching insights, practical techniques, and real-life stories, Linda shows how HR professionals and business leaders can start dismantling these beliefs and begin showing up more powerfully. 🧠 What You’ll Learn: 🔎 What Are Limiting Beliefs? The connection between limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome Common signs of self-sabotaging internal dialogue Why confidence is often a skill—not a trait 📚 Where They Come From Early experiences, workplace trauma, and ingrained messaging Why some beliefs become part of your persona The role of fear, shame, and internalised criticism 🔁 How to Start Rebuilding Confidence Coaching techniques that challenge limiting narratives Tools like journaling, reframing, and reflective cycles Using positive psychology (PERMA) and strength-based approaches 🧍 Why It’s Not About Perfection Breaking the myth that you must “know it all” to be credible Recognising the “archetypes” of imposter syndrome: the perfectionist, the expert, the superhuman How overcompensation can lead to burnout 💬 Being Vulnerable, Being Human The power of authentic leadership How hybrid working has shifted perceptions of professionalism Why showing vulnerability can build team trust ✨ Key Takeaways: ✅ Your internal voice has the power to shape—or shatter—your confidence ✅ Confidence can be developed with tools like reflection and reframing ✅ It’s okay not to have all the answers—leadership is a team sport ✅ Self-awareness helps you break the cycle of fear-based thinking ✅ Vulnerability, empathy, and connection can boost both wellbeing and performance 🔝 Top Tips from Linda Gent: Reflect – Use journaling, self-inquiry, or post-it exercises to explore the beliefs shaping your decisions. Reframe – Add the word “yet” to your inner dialogue. “I can’t do this…yet” changes everything. Rejoice – Acknowledge your wins. Celebrate the small stuff. Confidence grows when you recognise progress. 🎧 Listen & Engage Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network. 📩 Have feedback or a topic suggestion? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 More episodes and resources: www.hrindependents.co.uk

    39 min
  8. Episode 54: Redefining Visibility: Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image

    21 JUL

    Episode 54: Redefining Visibility: Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image

    HR Voices Podcast A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support. Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi.  DATE: 21st July 2025 Episode 54:  HR Voices with Pippa Tanko — Redefining Visibility: Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image Guest: Pippa Tanko, Brand Photographer & Visibility Coach In this episode: Mary Asante is joined by the inspiring Pippa Tanko, a brand photographer and visibility coach who helps entrepreneurs show up as their true selves online to attract the right clients. Together, they dive into what visibility really means—and why your story holds more power than your polished image. This conversation explores how authenticity (in its rawest, most real form) is not just a buzzword but a business strategy. Pippa shares her journey, insights, and powerful advice for HR consultants who want to build trust, stand out online, and connect meaningfully with their audience. 🎙️ What You’ll Learn: 🧭 Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image How authenticity builds trust Why your lived experiences are more powerful than polished trends Storytelling as a visibility tool and business strategy 🧠 Overcoming Visibility Fears Using fear as a compass to guide your next move The mindset shift: making visibility about your audience, not you The balance between vulnerability and privacy 📸 Strategic Visibility for Business Growth Building the “know, like, and trust” factor online Showing up consistently without burning out How to repurpose content meaningfully and sustainably 🫶 Why Being Human is Your Superpower The power of relatability in building your brand Visibility for those juggling business and life (e.g. carers, parents) Real life vs. curated perfection—and why honesty wins ✨ Key Takeaways: ✅ Visibility is about connection, not performance ✅ People relate to your story, not your perfection ✅ You attract the right clients by showing who you really are ✅ Your voice and story are part of your business’s most valuable assets ✅ There’s power – and profit – in showing up as your whole self 🔝 Top Tips from Pippa Tanko: Use fear as a compass – What scares you might be exactly what moves the needle in your business. Have an opinion – Sharing your perspective sets you apart and builds credibility. Practice visibility – Start small. Get on camera. Try video or share a personal post. You don’t have to be perfect—just present. 🎧 Listen & Engage Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with your HR network. 📩 Want to be a guest or suggest a topic? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 More episodes & insights: www.hrindependents.co.uk

    45 min
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About

Welcome to the HR Voices Podcast, a podcast designed to bring the UK HR community and businesses together. The podcast will be informative, with lots of helpful tips and ideas to help you run your business. Being an HR Independent Consultant can be quite lonely. This is why HR Independents (HRi), the UK body for Independent HR and People professionals has created a home and community for HR Indies. The HR Voices podcast will be discussing hot topics relating to HR and business. This will support HR Independent and People Professionals and the businesses they support. We will be bringing you practical tips, expert views and your views. Join Mary Asante, the Chief Executive of HRi and Charlotte Allfrey, Operations Director of HRi and their expert guests for engaging discussions. We would love to hear from you and for you to get more involved. If you have topics you would like us to discuss, contact us via hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk Learn more about HR Independents – HRi at: https://hrindependents.co.uk/about-us/ or connect with us on LinkedIn: hr independents linkedin page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hr-independents/ Hosts: www.linkedin.com/in/maryasante and https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-allfrey Success Together.

Information

  • Creator
    hrvoices
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    62
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    HR Voices Podcast

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