HR Voices Podcast

hrvoices

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 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 79: What We’ve Learned About Wellbeing at Work

    Jun 22

    Episode 79: What We’ve Learned About Wellbeing at Work

    Episode 79: What We’ve Learned About Wellbeing at Work Mental Wealth, Financial Wellbeing, Psychological Health and Men’s Health Host: Mary Asante Over the last four episodes of HR Voices, we have explored some of the most important wellbeing challenges facing today’s workplaces. From mental wealth and leadership to financial wellbeing, psychological health, stress, remote working and men’s health, one message has consistently emerged: People often struggle long before anyone notices. In this special recap episode, Mary Asante brings together the key insights and practical lessons from Episodes 75–78, highlighting what HR professionals, business leaders, managers and independent consultants can learn from these powerful conversations. In this episode, we explore: ✅ Why wellbeing is about far more than mental health alone ✅ The connection between mental health, financial wellbeing, physical health and workplace performance ✅ How stress, burnout and "drift" can develop quietly over time ✅ Why awareness alone is not enough to create meaningful change ✅ The emotional load carried by HR professionals, leaders and managers ✅ The impact of financial stress on employee wellbeing, productivity and engagement ✅ Psychological health in remote and hybrid working environments ✅ Why men’s health remains an important workplace conversation ✅ The role of managers in spotting early warning signs and creating supportive workplace cultures ✅ How isolation affects employees, leaders and independent consultants alike ✅ Why early intervention and meaningful conversations matter   Key themes from Episodes 75–78 Mental Wealth and Leadership Building strong support networks, recognising "drift" early, and understanding why leaders often struggle in silence. Financial Wellbeing at Work The impact of money worries on employee wellbeing, mental health, productivity and workplace performance. Psychological Health and Remote Working Managing stress, burnout, psychological strain and maintaining healthy boundaries in increasingly flexible workplaces. Men’s Health at Work Breaking stigma, encouraging earlier conversations, supporting preventative healthcare and creating workplaces where people feel safe seeking help. Key Takeaway Wellbeing challenges rarely appear overnight. Whether someone is experiencing stress, financial pressure, burnout, isolation, mental health challenges or physical health concerns, early support can make a significant difference. The most effective workplaces are not those that wait for a crisis to happen—they are the ones that create environments where people feel able to speak up, seek support and have meaningful conversations before problems escalate. Reflection for HR Professionals and Leaders As professionals who spend much of our time supporting others, it is important to remember that wellbeing applies to us too. Who supports the supporter? Who notices when you disappear? Who checks in on you? Creating healthy workplaces starts with creating healthy support systems for ourselves as well as for those around us. A simple reminder Sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is: 📞 Pick up the phone. 🤝 Check in. 💬 Start a conversation. You may be closer to support, clarity, change and recovery than you think. 🎧 Listen now and revisit the key lessons from Episodes 75–78 of HR Voices. 📩 Questions or topics for future episodes? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk #HRVoices #WorkplaceWellbeing #MentalHealthAtWork #MentalWealth #FinancialWellbeing #PsychologicalSafety #PsychologicalHealth #MensHealth #Leadership #EmployeeWellbeing #HRProfessionals #PeopleProfessionals #HybridWorking #RemoteWorking #BurnoutPrevention #OccupationalHealth #WorkplaceCulture #HRCommunity #HRIndependents #PeopleManagement

    26 min
  2. BONUS EPISODE 78: Men's Health in the Workplace– Mental Health, Stress, Burnout & Early Intervention

    Jun 15

    BONUS EPISODE 78: Men's Health in the Workplace– Mental Health, Stress, Burnout & Early Intervention

    Host: Mary Asante Guest: Dr Mani Khan, Occupational Health Assessments In this special episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by occupational health specialist Dr Mani Khan to discuss one of the most important and often overlooked workplace topics: men's health. While workplace wellbeing is now a regular part of organisational conversations, many men still delay seeking support for both physical and mental health concerns. This can lead to increased stress, burnout, long-term sickness absence, and in some cases devastating outcomes for individuals, families and employers. Drawing on over 30 years of clinical and occupational health experience, Dr Khan shares practical insights into the health challenges affecting men today, the warning signs employers should recognise, and how managers, HR professionals and occupational health specialists can work together to support employees earlier and more effectively. In this episode, we discuss: Men's mental health in the workplace Stress, anxiety and depression at work Burnout and long-term sickness absence Presenteeism and hidden signs of distress Why men often delay asking for help Suicide awareness and men's mental health The role of occupational health in supporting employees Building supportive workplace cultures Psychological safety and employee wellbeing Musculoskeletal disorders and workplace health Cardiovascular health, diabetes and obesity Prostate cancer awareness and prevention Hybrid working, remote working and isolation The importance of manager check-ins and early intervention The Equality Act, reasonable adjustments and employee support Health promotion and wellbeing initiatives in the workplace Why this conversation matters Many health conditions affecting men are preventable, manageable or treatable when identified early. Whether it is stress, burnout, anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions or prostate health, early conversations and proactive support can make a significant difference to both health outcomes and workplace performance. For HR professionals, managers and business leaders, this episode provides practical guidance on recognising warning signs, creating supportive workplace environments and helping employees access the right support before problems escalate. Dr Khan's key messages Men's health challenges are more common than many people realise. Regular health checks, healthy lifestyles and early intervention matter. Good health, wellbeing and work are interconnected — supporting the whole person leads to better outcomes at work and at home. A reminder for listeners If something doesn't feel right, don't wait. Whether you're concerned about your physical health, mental wellbeing, stress levels or burnout, seeking support early is one of the most important steps you can take. 🎧 Listen now and share with managers, HR professionals, business leaders, colleagues, friends and family. 📩 Questions or topics for future episodes? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk #MensHealth #MensHealthWeek #MentalHealthAtWork #WorkplaceWellbeing #OccupationalHealth #EmployeeWellbeing #MentalHealth #Burnout #StressManagement #HR #PeopleManagement #Leadership #PsychologicalSafety #ProstateCancerAwareness #WorkplaceHealth #HRVoices

    54 min
  3. Episode 77: Psychological Health at Work – Managing Mental Health, Stress and Remote Working

    Jun 8

    Episode 77: Psychological Health at Work – Managing Mental Health, Stress and Remote Working

    Episode 77: Psychological Health at Work – Managing Mental Health, Stress and Remote Working   Host: Mary Asante Guest: Magnus Kauders, Occupational Health Assessments   In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by Magnus Kauders from Occupational Health Assessments for an important conversation about psychological health in the workplace, mental wellbeing, and the growing challenges facing employers, HR professionals and independent consultants.   Mary and Magnus explore the difference between mental health and psychological ill health, the role of occupational health, and why proactive support and early intervention matter more than ever in today’s hybrid and remote working environments.   The conversation also highlights the increasing emotional pressures faced by employees, managers and HR professionals, and why creating psychologically safe workplace cultures is essential for both wellbeing and business performance.   In this episode, we discuss:   Mental health vs psychological ill health Stress, anxiety and depression in the workplace When employers should involve occupational health The role of HR professionals and line managers Psychological safety at work Mental health first aid and employee support Stress risk assessments and employer responsibilities The impact of remote and hybrid working on wellbeing Recognising early signs of psychological distress Why prevention and early intervention matter Supporting employees before issues escalate Isolation and loneliness in remote working The importance of workplace culture and human connection   Resources mentioned:   HSE stress risk assessment guidance Working Minds campaign resources Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) Mental Health First Aid training   Key message   Psychological health at work is everyone’s responsibility.   Creating supportive workplace cultures, checking in regularly, and addressing concerns early can make a significant difference to employee wellbeing, performance and long-term business health.   Key takeaway from Magnus   If your intuition tells you something is not right with someone, it is always better to ask: “Are you okay?”   Small conversations and human connection can prevent much bigger problems later.   🎧 Listen now and share with HR professionals, managers, business leaders and anyone supporting people at work.   📩 Questions or topics for future episodes? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk

    46 min
  4. Episode 76: Financial Wellbeing at Work – Supporting Employees Through Financial Stress

    May 25

    Episode 76: Financial Wellbeing at Work – Supporting Employees Through Financial Stress

    Episode 76: Financial Wellbeing at Work – Supporting Employees Through Financial Stress   Host: Mary Asante Guest: Charlie Goodman, Good Money Guidance Ltd   In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by financial wellbeing specialist Charlie Goodman to discuss one of the biggest workplace challenges facing employees and employers today - financial wellbeing.   With rising living costs, financial stress and increasing pressure on household budgets, financial wellbeing has become a major issue for HR professionals, business leaders and SME employers.   Mary and Charlie explore how financial stress impacts employee wellbeing, mental health, productivity and workplace performance, and what organisations can realistically do to support their people.   In this episode, we discuss:   Financial wellbeing and employee mental health The impact of the cost of living crisis on employees Why higher earners can still struggle financially Financial stress in the workplace How HR professionals and employers can support employee wellbeing Workplace pensions and employee benefits The importance of financial education and communication Budgeting tools and financial wellbeing technology Why employees often struggle to take financial action The difference between information and behaviour change Creating realistic financial wellbeing strategies for SMEs   Resources mentioned:   MoneyHelper Money Saving Expert (Martin Lewis) Pension Awareness Week Workplace pension provider wellbeing resources   Key message   Financial wellbeing is not just about salary.   It is about helping employees build confidence, understanding and healthier financial habits through practical support, communication and accessible resources.   Charlie’s top tips:   Help employees understand the benefits and support already available Keep financial wellbeing support practical and realistic Make it easy for employees to access trusted information and tools   🎧 Listen now and share with HR professionals, business leaders and anyone supporting workplace wellbeing.   📩 Questions or future topic suggestions? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk

    43 min
  5. Episode 75: You’re Closer Than You Think – Mental Wealth, Drift and Support

    May 11

    Episode 75: You’re Closer Than You Think – Mental Wealth, Drift and Support

    Host: Mary Asante Guest: Mike Pagan   In this powerful Mental Health Awareness Week episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante welcomes back leadership speaker and Mental Wealth advocate Mike Pagan for a deeper conversation about isolation, drift, accountability and support.   Building on their hugely popular previous discussion on Mental Wealth (Episode 57), this episode explores what happens when capable people quietly become overwhelmed, disconnected or stuck — especially HR professionals, leaders and independent consultants who spend so much time supporting others.   Together, Mary and Mike discuss the emotional load many professionals carry, the hidden impact of hybrid and remote working, and why awareness alone is not enough without action and support.   In this episode, we discuss:   What “drift” looks like in practice Why capable people can still become stuck Isolation in leadership and remote working The emotional pressure carried by HR professionals Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness The difference between awareness and action Accountability, routines and support structures The importance of human connection and checking in   Mike’s top tips:   Prioritise self-care and check in with yourself regularly Spend more time with people who energise and support you Pick up the phone and check in on someone who may need it   🎧 A thoughtful and honest conversation about wellbeing, leadership, connection and the importance of not carrying everything alone.   📩 Questions or topics for future episodes? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.u

    52 min
  6. Episode 74: What HR Consultants Are Asking Right Now (and What It Means for Your Business)

    Apr 27

    Episode 74: What HR Consultants Are Asking Right Now (and What It Means for Your Business)

    Episode 74: What HR Consultants Are Asking Right Now (and What It Means for Your Business) What are HR consultants really struggling with right now — and what does it mean for how you grow your business? Host: Mary Asante In this solo episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante steps into the role of community voice and thought leader, sharing the most common questions she’s hearing from HR consultants right now — and, more importantly, what sits beneath them. From winning consistent work to pricing with confidence, this episode goes beyond surface-level advice and explores the patterns, challenges, and mindset shifts shaping the HR consultancy landscape today. In this episode, we explore: Why visibility alone isn’t enough to win work The real reason LinkedIn may not be working for you Moving from hourly pricing to value-based thinking When (and how) retainers can support sustainable growth The importance of clarity in positioning and niche How to stand out in a crowded HR consultancy market Managing client expectations and avoiding constant reactivity Setting boundaries to protect your time, energy, and business Why this matters Many HR consultants are busy, but not always building sustainably. This episode highlights the key shifts needed to move from: reactive to intentional visible to valuable busy to strategic …and ultimately build a consultancy that is both profitable and sustainable. Key takeaways Be intentional, not just active — especially when it comes to visibility and networking Focus on value, not just delivery — in both pricing and positioning Protect your time and energy — boundaries are essential for long-term success A note from Mary “This episode is based on real conversations across the HRi community. If you’ve been asking yourself similar questions, you’re not alone.” Get involved Have a question, challenge, or topic you’d like us to explore? 📧 Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk About HR Voices HR Voices is brought to you by HR Independents (HRi) — the UK’s professional body supporting independent HR and People professionals. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with your network and help more HR consultants build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

    21 min
  7. Episode 73- How to use LinkedIn as a tool to grow your HR Consultancy Business

    Apr 13

    Episode 73- How to use LinkedIn as a tool to grow your HR Consultancy Business

    Episode 73: How to Use LinkedIn to Grow Your Consultancy Business Host: Mary Asante Guest: Meg Hutson, Marketing Mentor How can LinkedIn help you attract the right clients, build your personal brand, and grow your consultancy? In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by Meg Hutson, marketing mentor and messaging specialist, to explore how consultants and service-based business owners can use LinkedIn more intentionally and effectively. Meg shares practical, honest advice on how to use LinkedIn as more than an online CV, turning it into a tool for visibility, credibility, and meaningful client relationships. In this episode, we cover: Why LinkedIn is a powerful platform for consultants The shift from corporate LinkedIn use to consultancy LinkedIn use Why personal branding matters more than ever How to use LinkedIn to attract aligned clients The 3 Cs of LinkedIn: Content Connections Conversations Why relationship-building works better than salesy outreach How to create content that feels relevant and relatable Why market research matters for your messaging How to stay consistent without posting every day Why your personal profile matters more than a business page Why this matters For HR consultants and solo business owners, LinkedIn can be one of the most effective ways to: build trust show your expertise communicate your values stay visible to the right audience generate quality enquiries But results don’t come from posting alone. They come from being intentional about how you show up, who you connect with, and the conversations you start. Meg’s top tips: Use your personal profile, not just a business page Be clear on what you do, who you help, and how Focus on all 3 Cs: content, connections, and conversations 🎧 A practical episode for any consultant who wants to use LinkedIn with more purpose, confidence, and impact. 📩 Questions or topics for future episodes? hrvoices@hrindependence.co.uk

    40 min
  8. Episode 72: Employment Rights in 2025 – What Employers Need to Know

    Mar 30

    Episode 72: Employment Rights in 2025 – What Employers Need to Know

    What do the latest employment law changes really mean for your business, and are you ready? Host: Mary Asante Guest: Amanda Trewhella, Freeths In this episode of HR Voices, Mary Asante is joined by employment lawyer Amanda Trewhella (Freeths) to break down the key changes under the Employment Rights Act 2025, and what HR professionals, employers, and managers need to be doing now to prepare. 🔍 In this episode, we cover: Changes to unfair dismissal rights (2 years ➝ 6 months from 2027) New day one rights (SSP, paternity leave, parental leave) Increased risk in redundancy consultations (protective awards doubling) Reforms to zero-hours contracts New duties around sexual and third-party harassment Updates to flexible working requests The requirement to inform employees of their right to join a trade union ⚠️ Why this matters These changes represent one of the biggest shifts in UK employment law in recent years — and they will require: updated policies and contracts stronger manager capability better employee relations practices proactive risk management 💡 Amanda’s top tips: Review and update your policies and processes now Train managers to handle issues early and effectively Start preparing ahead of the implementation timelines 🎧 Whether you’re an HR consultant, business owner, or people manager, this episode gives you a clear and practical overview of what’s changing — and how to stay ahead. 📩 Questions or topics for future episodes? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk

    43 min

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 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.