Loose Suits

The Podcast Guys

Adulting is hard. We all know it. Navigating our personal lives can be tough enough and then you’ve got the added stress of navigating work too. Whether it’s ‘how do I set boundaries with my colleagues?’ or ‘when’s a good time to bring up the subject of a payrise? (how do I even ask for one?)' there’s always situations at work where we could do with getting some advice. Well, what if you could ask someone whose experienced all these scenarios and quite a few others? Someone who knows all about high-pressure environments, how to manage difficult situations and people, and navigating the patriarchy at work. Maybe they’ve won some awards along the way? How about an OBE? Better yet, what if there was 3 of them? I. Stephanie Boyce is the former President of the Law Society of England and Wales. In 2021 she became the first person of colour to become President. Heather Melville, OBE, is Chancellor of the University of York and in 2017 received an honorary doctorate from the University of Portsmouth for her influence and impact on diversity in business. Janie Frampton, OBE, cemented her place in history as the second woman referee to operate in the men's professional game of football in England, before going on to a successful leadership speaking and consultancy career. Welcome to Loose Suits.

  1. Love, Labels & The Workplace Wars

    19/02/2025

    Love, Labels & The Workplace Wars

    From the relentless news cycle to workplace biases and the ever-commercialised Valentine’s Day, this episode of Loose Suits is packed with sharp insights, unfiltered opinions, and plenty of laughter. Heather Melville, I. Stephanie Boyce, and Janie Frampton return to break down the week’s biggest stories - challenging outdated norms, debating leadership failures, and even questioning why airlines still can’t get seating right. 🎙️ Global Turmoil & Leadership Gaps The ongoing crisis in Gaza and Ukraine - why political leaders are failing to act as peacemakers. Toxic politics in the UK: Have we lost all sense of respect and integrity in leadership? Why watching PMQs feels more like a schoolyard brawl than grown-up governance. 🎙️ Rant of the Week: Airline Seating Drama Should larger passengers be required to buy two seats? How airlines manipulate pricing and why economy seats are shrinking. Are we overdue for a more inclusive approach to air travel? 🎙️ Professional Dilemma: “You’re Too Much” Being told you’re “too loud,” “too confident,” or “too much” - why this feedback is often gendered. The workplace bias that forces women to tone down their personalities and style. Should we still be policing how people dress in professional settings? 🎙️ Counsellor’s Corner: Valentine’s Day in the Workplace Is Valentine’s Day just a commercial trap - or a chance to celebrate love in all forms? The pressure on men to buy gifts, and why some workplaces feel exclusionary on February 14th. The importance of self-love and making space for those who might feel left out. 💡 Key Takeaway: "Just because someone delivers criticism doesn’t mean you have to receive it. Know your own worth." Join the Loose Suits ladies as they dissect leadership, societal expectations, and the ever-changing rules of the workplace. Whether you’re here for the insights, the no-nonsense advice, or the straight-talking reality checks, this episode has it all. Listen now and stay informed on the issues that shape your world.

    35 min
  2. Power, Politics & The Price of Bad Leadership

    05/02/2025

    Power, Politics & The Price of Bad Leadership

    Join Heather Melville, I. Stephanie Boyce, and Janie Frampton as they return for another thought-provoking and laughter-filled discussion, tackling some of the biggest issues shaping our world today.  With their signature mix of wit, wisdom, and unfiltered honesty, the trio unpacks political upheaval, leadership failures, and the resilience needed to navigate today’s turbulent landscape. From Trump’s controversial return to office to the NHS crisis and the ongoing debate around diversity and inclusion, no topic is off-limits. Through lively debate and personal insights, they break down the headlines and offer real-world takeaways for work, life, and leadership. In this episode, the hosts discuss: 🎙️ Trump’s Second Term: A Global Game-Changer? What his re-election means for international politics and democracy. The erosion of leadership integrity and why populism still prevails. How his policies are fuelling dangerous rhetoric and cultural division. 🎙️ The Diversity Debate: Progress or Backlash? Why the fight for inclusion is being weaponised in the workplace and politics. How companies get it wrong—hiring for optics but failing on culture. The impact of poor leadership on fostering true inclusivity. 🎙️ Crisis in the NHS: Quick Fixes vs. Real Reform Why prioritising waiting lists over social care is a disaster waiting to happen. The real cost of NHS underfunding and political mismanagement. Should the UK rethink its entire approach to healthcare? 🎙️ Resilience & Mental Well-Being: Thriving in Uncertain Times How to build resilience when everything feels overwhelming. The power of gratitude and small daily wins. Why leadership should start with compassion—not just strategy. Key Quote of the Week: "Change is the law of life. Those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future." – John F. Kennedy Join the Loose Suits team as they break down complex issues, challenge outdated thinking, and bring much-needed humour to heavy topics. Whether you're here for the insights, the no-nonsense advice, or the laughs, this episode delivers it all. Listen now and get ready to question the norm, stay informed, and navigate 2025 with clarity and confidence.

    39 min
  3. Culture, Conduct, and Christmas Chaos

    11/12/2024

    Culture, Conduct, and Christmas Chaos

    In this week’s episode of Loose Suits, Heather Melville, I. Stephanie Boyce, and Janie Frampton dive into some of the most pressing topics in the news and workplace culture. With their trademark blend of humour, insight, and no-nonsense advice, the trio explores how bad behaviour, workplace culture, and even Christmas festivities can shape our professional and personal lives. From headline-grabbing controversies to the hidden costs of festive celebrations, the conversation is lively, engaging, and packed with takeaways for navigating tricky situations. Whether it’s addressing inappropriate behaviour in the workplace or tackling the often-overlooked pressures of the holiday season, Heather, Stephanie, and Janie bring a wealth of personal experience and practical tips to the table. In this episode, the hosts discuss: 🎙️ Bad Behaviour in the Spotlight: What the Greg Wallace controversy reveals about workplace culture and accountability. Why calling out inappropriate behaviour matters—at any age or stage of your career. Practical advice for those facing toxic workplace dynamics. 🎙️ Festive Dilemmas: The hidden pressures of Christmas parties—cost, inclusion, and inappropriate Secret Santa gifts. Why organisations need to rethink their approach to fostering inclusivity during the holidays. 🎙️ Reflections and Resolutions: How to reflect on the year gone by and set meaningful goals for the year ahead. Why vision boards might just be the antidote to stressful New Year’s resolutions. The importance of kindness, forgiveness, and valuing the moments that matter. Key Quote of the Week: "Wind either breaks a tree or teaches it to dance." – Dr. Stephanie Boyce Join the Loose Suits team as they challenge the status quo, share their wisdom, and bring light-hearted banter to some of life’s toughest topics. Whether you’re here for the insights, the laughs, or just to feel part of an empowering conversation, this episode has something for everyone. Listen now and reflect, recharge, and take on 2025 with purpose and positivity!

    40 min
  4. Inheritance Tax, SME Survival & Self-Care

    27/11/2024

    Inheritance Tax, SME Survival & Self-Care

    In this episode of Loose Suits, Stephanie Boyce takes the captain's chair, joined by co-host Janie Frampton OBE DL and guest co-host Simon Acres. Together, they discuss pressing topics like inheritance tax reform, the challenges facing SMEs in 2025, the growing importance of apprenticeships, and how businesses can balance leadership with self-care. Expect candid rants, professional dilemmas, and actionable advice for navigating a fast-changing world. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the intersection of policy and everyday life, Loose Suits offers a blend of expertise, humour, and heart. Tune in, and don’t forget to share your workplace dilemmas with us for a chance to be featured on Counsellor’s Corner! —————————————————— For more information about Simon and the ladies, you can find them here: Janie Frampton OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janie-frampton-obe/ I. Stephanie Boyce, FKC, FRSA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/i-stephanie-boyce-fkc-frsa-a4757062/ Simon Acres: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-acres-2800403a/ —————————————————— This show was Produced, Edited, and Distributed by The Podcast Guys® - your go-to partners in podcasting for businesses and brands.   We’re here to help delight your audience and grow your podcast, specialising in creating exceptional audio experiences tailored for brands looking to engage. Discover how we can create or elevate your podcast as well as help you connect with your audience on an entirely new level.   Visit us at www.thepodcastguys.co.uk to learn more.

    40 min
  5. Portraits, Politics, and Perspective

    13/11/2024

    Portraits, Politics, and Perspective

    In this episode of Loose Suits, join your hosts Heather Melville, Dr. Stephanie Boyce, and Janie Frampton as they dive into their usual features: ‘From the Week’, ‘Rant Roulette’, ‘Professional Dilemma’, and ‘Councillor's Corner’. They start by celebrating Stephanie’s portrait unveiling at the Law Society before reflecting on the recent U.S. election results, exploring what Trump’s appeal means for the U.S. and beyond. The hosts discuss the shortage of female leaders worldwide, especially in politics, and the unique qualities women bring to leadership roles. Switching gears, they swap tips on navigating networking in the digital age—keeping connections valuable while managing time. They also tackle the balancing act of work and parenting, sharing real stories of “mum guilt,” juggling family, and setting priorities. Plus, Stephanie’s “Rant of the Week” highlights the need for better communication around London Tube strikes, especially for commuters. Hope you enjoyed this episode and remember, life is all about balance, lifting each other up, and finding moments of grace even in the busiest times. We look forward to having you with us next time for more insights, laughs, and inspiration. —————————————————— For more information about the ladies, you can find them here: Dr. Heather Melville OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-heather-melville-obe-cmgr-ccmi-8ab8a810/?originalSubdomain=uk Janie Frampton OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janie-frampton-obe/ I. Stephanie Boyce, FKC, FRSA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/i-stephanie-boyce-fkc-frsa-a4757062/ —————————————————— This show was Produced, Edited, and Distributed by The Podcast Guys® - your go-to partners in podcasting for businesses and brands. We’re here to help delight your audience and grow your podcast, specialising in creating exceptional audio experiences tailored for brands looking to engage. Discover how we can create or elevate your podcast as well as help you connect with your audience on an entirely new level. Visit us at www.thepodcastguys.co.uk to learn more.

    44 min
  6. Navigating Challenges, Community, and Couture

    30/10/2024

    Navigating Challenges, Community, and Couture

    In this episode of Loose Suits, Heather Melville, Dr. Stephanie Boyce, and Janie Frampton come together for an engaging and heartfelt conversation on the personal and professional dilemmas that shape our lives. From the importance of building a supportive network to the challenges of appearing at black-tie events on a budget, these three accomplished women offer a mix of wisdom, humour, and practical advice. Heather, Stephanie, and Janie dive into timely topics, including reflections on family impact in the face of public tragedy, the divisive rhetoric surrounding societal issues, and the strain of rising costs on single and elderly adults. The conversation seamlessly shifts between serious reflections and light-hearted moments, with stories of creative styling—think Primark meets Louis Vuitton—and the resilience needed to balance a demanding professional life with personal expression. With their characteristic banter and insightful takes, the hosts remind us that life’s challenges are best faced with humour, resourcefulness, and a supportive community. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion filled with real-life advice on everything from tackling social expectations to the importance of celebrating diverse achievements within our communities. Tune in to hear more about: The impact of family and community support in difficult times Balancing personal style with budget-friendly fashion choices How to build and maintain a network that’s there in both triumph and trouble Reflections on inclusivity, diversity, and why these conversations matter year-round Grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and prepare for an episode that’s both heartwarming and insightful. Loose Suits is here to remind you that you’re not navigating adulthood alone—especially when you’ve got a fabulous, supportive network to lean on. —————————————————— For more information about the ladies, you can find them here: Dr. Heather Melville OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-heather-melville-obe-cmgr-ccmi-8ab8a810/?originalSubdomain=uk Janie Frampton OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janie-frampton-obe/ I. Stephanie Boyce, FKC, FRSA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/i-stephanie-boyce-fkc-frsa-a4757062/ —————————————————— This show was Produced, Edited, and Distributed by The Podcast Guys® - your go-to partners in podcasting for businesses and brands. We’re here to help delight your audience and grow your podcast, specialising in creating exceptional audio experiences tailored for brands looking to engage. Discover how we can create or elevate your podcast as well as help you connect with your audience on an entirely new level. Visit us at www.thepodcastguys.co.uk to learn more.

    40 min
  7. Owning Your Voice: Career Advice, Workplace Culture, and Finding Balance

    16/10/2024

    Owning Your Voice: Career Advice, Workplace Culture, and Finding Balance

    Welcome to the fifth episode of Loose Suits - the podcast series where three friends come together to share their wisdom, humour and insights gained from their diverse life experiences! I. Stephanie Boyce takes centre stage as captain along side her friends, Janie Frampton OBE and Dr Heather Melville OBE who are eager to tackle Stephanie’s take on the usual features: ‘From The Week’, ‘Rant Roulette’, ‘Professional Dilemma’ and ‘Councillor's Corner’. They look into the challenges and triumphs of navigating professional life, from the nuances of speaking up in a male-dominated environment to the importance of prioritising self-care, these three powerhouse women share personal stories, career-defining moments and valuable advice on how to make your voice heard in any room. The episode sees the ladies talk all about workplace culture, micro aggressions and how leadership sets the tone for inclusion or exclusion as well as sharing practical tips for handling career frustrations, speaking up and finding balance in high-pressure environments. Heather shares a candid story of standing up (literally!) in a room full of men who were ignoring her, Stephanie shares her powerful career advice: “Don’t dim your light” and Janie talks about her experience in the world of football and how her innovative ideas were taken over by others. Tune in now for a conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and practical advice for thriving in your career. —————————————————— For more information about the ladies, you can find them here: Dr. Heather Melville OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-heather-melville-obe-cmgr-ccmi-8ab8a810/?originalSubdomain=uk Janie Frampton OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janie-frampton-obe/ I. Stephanie Boyce, FKC, FRSA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/i-stephanie-boyce-fkc-frsa-a4757062/ —————————————————— This show was Produced, Edited, and Distributed by The Podcast Guys® - your go-to partners in podcasting for businesses and brands. We’re here to help delight your audience and grow your podcast, specialising in creating exceptional audio experiences tailored for brands looking to engage. Discover how we can create or elevate your podcast as well as help you connect with your audience on an entirely new level. Visit us at www.thepodcastguys.co.uk to learn more.

    42 min

About

Adulting is hard. We all know it. Navigating our personal lives can be tough enough and then you’ve got the added stress of navigating work too. Whether it’s ‘how do I set boundaries with my colleagues?’ or ‘when’s a good time to bring up the subject of a payrise? (how do I even ask for one?)' there’s always situations at work where we could do with getting some advice. Well, what if you could ask someone whose experienced all these scenarios and quite a few others? Someone who knows all about high-pressure environments, how to manage difficult situations and people, and navigating the patriarchy at work. Maybe they’ve won some awards along the way? How about an OBE? Better yet, what if there was 3 of them? I. Stephanie Boyce is the former President of the Law Society of England and Wales. In 2021 she became the first person of colour to become President. Heather Melville, OBE, is Chancellor of the University of York and in 2017 received an honorary doctorate from the University of Portsmouth for her influence and impact on diversity in business. Janie Frampton, OBE, cemented her place in history as the second woman referee to operate in the men's professional game of football in England, before going on to a successful leadership speaking and consultancy career. Welcome to Loose Suits.