HR Engage Podcast

Jonathan Mamaril
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The HR Engage Podcast with your host Jonathan Mamaril. Join South Geldard Director and Head of the Employment Law team, Jonathan Mamaril as he speaks with HR teams and professionals about their journey into HR, why they are passionate about Human Resources, trends and challenges they are facing and what they believe is the future of HR.  This is a podcast by HR people for HR people – if you are starting out in the HR space, have some curiosity in the area, or a an experienced HR professional and leader this podcast is for anyone involved in the HR space talking with people just like you! There might be a golden nugget of advice or a different perspective that will be helpful in your HR journey.

  1. HR Engage Podcast Ep.31 with  Carla Canning

    6d ago

    HR Engage Podcast Ep.31 with  Carla Canning

    What happens when you combine corporate HR expertise with a professional background in drug and alcohol rehabilitation counselling? In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Carla Canning, the founder of Connect Lead Achieve. Carla shares her inspiring journey from starting out in law firm administration to stepping away to work as a counsellor, eventually returning to human resources to solve a massive industry gap: the chronic under-resourcing of people operations within the community services and not-for-profit sectors. Carla and Jonathan unpack why so many small-to-medium NFP and NDIS organisations are trapped in a reactionary HR cycle, often only seeking support when facing Fair Work disputes or funding risks. From navigating generational divides over work-life balance to the simple, preventative power of morning tea and cake, this conversation explores how organisations can transition from pure risk management to active culture and capability building. In this episode, we cover: Moving from corporate legal administration to drug and alcohol rehab counsellingWhy the community services and NDIS sectors are chronically under-resourced in back-of-house supportNavigating the shift from reactionary crisis management to proactive workplace complianceWhy bringing cake to morning tea is actually a brilliant preventative HR strategyBridging the work-life balance divide between office staff and frontline support workersGolden career advice for both early-career generalists and senior HR executivesCarla's rapid-fire insights on micro-moments of self-care, coast trekking, and volunteering in LaosTrue workplace transformation begins when we stop treating human resources as a compliance checkbox and start actively empowering the individuals delivering frontline care. South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: southgeldard.com.au How does your organisation encourage proactive relationship-building to catch team issues before they turn into major challenges? Consider your own workplace strategies as you listen to today's episode. Follow the HR Engage Podcast for real stories from real HR leaders. Never miss an episode. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    58 min
  2. HR Engage Podcast with AJ Kulatunga

    May 26

    HR Engage Podcast with AJ Kulatunga

    Why are your stakeholders nodding "yes" but doing absolutely nothing? Jonathan Mamaril welcomes professional speaker and business strategist AJ Kulatunga to explore the high-stakes world of impact and influence. From his roots in Darwin to the global stage, AJ shares how his "warrior" archetype and unique vantage point help HR leaders navigate the complex, often non-linear path of modern leadership. This conversation breaks down why logic and data often fail to move the needle when it comes to organisational change. AJ explains that real influence requires building "trust in the bank" long before you ever need to withdraw it. By shifting your mindset and "hugging the cactus," you can bridge the execution gap and move people from where they are, rather than where you wish they were. In this episode, we cover: The "TLC" Framework: Think, Look, and CommunicateWhy leaders must "hug the cactus" and embrace uncomfortable conversations earlyBuilding institutional trust versus peer-to-peer credibility in the age of AIUsing strategic storytelling to shift identity and drive executive actionThe secret to solving 100 small problems versus tackling one horse-sized challengeHow to "level up" your leadership by mastering execution intelligence Mastering these capabilities makes every future challenge easier to navigate and far more rewarding. 🔗 South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: southgeldard.com.au What is one "cactus" you have been avoiding hugging in your workplace recently? Subscribe so you never miss an episode of the HR Engage Podcast — where real HR leaders share real stories. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    1h 26m
  3. HR Engage Podcast with Sarah Stone

    Apr 30

    HR Engage Podcast with Sarah Stone

    Is the human resources industry facing a mass exodus, or is it on the brink of an AI revolution? In this full episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Sarah Stone, Co-Founder of linkABLE and ThriveABLE AI. With a rich corporate background working across major brands, Sarah brings a refreshingly honest and commercially driven perspective to the people and culture space. Sarah shares her incredible journey from stepping into management at just nineteen to becoming a leading voice in learning and development. This wide-ranging conversation tackles the biggest challenges facing HR professionals today. From the alarming trend of burnt-out teams acting as a dumping ground for unresolved conflicts, to the vital importance of articulating your financial value, Sarah explains why intentionality is your ultimate survival tool. Jonathan and Sarah also dive deep into artificial intelligence. Sarah breaks down how leaders must shift their mindset to successfully adopt AI—moving away from a scatter gun approach to a deliberate tech strategy—before they are left completely behind. In this episode, Jonathan and Sarah cover: The ROI of L&D: How to move learning and development from a fluffy afterthought to a deliberate business driver.Early Career Lessons: Sarah's honest reflections on becoming a manager at 19 and why leaders should always use the 24-hour rule.The HR Exodus: Unpacking why HR professionals are burning out and how business leaders avoiding hard conversations is the root cause.Selling Your Value: Why failing to articulate your commercial value makes HR teams vulnerable to redundancies.Deliberate AI Strategy: How to stop dabbling with ChatGPT and start building an AI framework that delivers real financial returns.Rapid-Fire Fun: We get to know Sarah outside of work, touching on Reformer Pilates, terrible driving, and the Maldives.If you are ready to step out of transactional tasks and start leading with an intentional strategy, you will not want to miss this masterclass. Need practical, jargon-free employment law advice? Reach out to the team today (and mention the podcast for a listener discount!):  🔗 South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: southgeldard.com.au  💬 We want to hear from you! What was your biggest takeaway from Jonathan and Sarah's conversation on the future of HR and AI? Reach out and let us know. 🔔 Subscribe to the HR Engage Podcast so you never miss an episode—where real HR leaders share real stories. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    57 min
  4. HR Engage Podcast with Trudi Liekefett

    Apr 1

    HR Engage Podcast with Trudi Liekefett

    Trudi Liekefett, Manager of People & Capability at Isaac Regional Council, joins Jonathan Mamaril for one of the most honest, wide-ranging, and deeply personal conversations we've had on the HR Engage Podcast. Trudi's journey into HR was anything but planned. From studying law, to journalism, to completing an MBA — she fell into HR by accident while her husband was deployed to Afghanistan. What followed was a career built on variety, resilience, and the courage to keep saying yes — even when it meant starting over. From her start at Rio Tinto's coal mines in regional Queensland, through a breast cancer diagnosis at 30, to stepping back into a more junior role to eventually lead the People & Capability function at Isaac Regional Council — Trudi's story is a masterclass in backing yourself. In this episode, we cover: Why regional Australia is one of the most underrated career launchpads for HR professionalsBeing diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer at 30 — and the workplace support that changed everythingWhy taking a step back in your career is sometimes the smartest move you'll ever makeThe case for generalist experience over specialisation — especially early in your HR careerWhy burnout in HR is real — and the practical habits that actually helpWhy manager capability is the single biggest challenge facing organisations right nowA controversial take — why HR and unions are actually working toward the same goalThe evolution of HR from "protect the company" to strategic partner and wellbeing champion"Sometimes you need to do less to be more." — the quote that recently changed Trudi's lifeThe power of mentorship and Women in Leadership programs at any stage of your careerRapid fire: Ocean's Eight, Mexico, a Las Vegas timeshare, and being a hardcore dance mumWhether you're just starting out in HR, navigating burnout, or wondering if the variety in your career is an asset or a liability — this episode will leave you motivated, grounded, and ready to back yourself. South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: https://southgeldard.com.au/ Subscribe so you never miss an episode of the HR Engage Podcast — where real HR leaders share real stories. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    1h 9m
  5. HR Engage Podcast with Chantelle Williams

    Mar 12

    HR Engage Podcast with Chantelle Williams

    What does a classical vocalist turned HR leader have to teach us about people, culture, and business? More than you'd think. 🎶➡️💼 In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Chantelle Williams — Head of People & Culture at LSKD, Australia's fast-growing athleisure brand — for one of the most refreshing and real conversations we've had on the podcast. Chantelle's journey is anything but conventional. From music teacher to facilitator, L&D specialist to global HR leader — she's built a career by saying yes first and figuring it out after. And she's bringing that same bold energy to one of Australia's most exciting workplaces. In this episode, we cover: 🎯 How Chantelle went from classical vocalist to Head of People & Culture 💡 Why HR must think commercially — not just culturally 🚀 The real challenges of scaling culture during hyper-growth 🧠 Mindset vs. generational differences in leadership 📋 Why more policies ≠ fewer problems 📚 Must-read book recommendations for HR and people leaders Whether you're just starting out in HR or you've got decades under your belt, Chantelle's insights on authentic leadership, people strategy, and building culture at scale will leave you thinking differently about the work you do. 🔗 South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: southgeldard.com.au 💬 What's your biggest HR challenge right now? Drop it in the comments — we'd love to hear from you! 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode of the HR Engage Podcast — where real HR leaders share real stories. #HREngagePodcast #HumanResources #PeopleAndCulture #HRLeadership #workplaceculture Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    50 min
  6. HR Engage Podcast with Jay Ramanah

    Feb 18

    HR Engage Podcast with Jay Ramanah

    What happens when an astrophysicist trades the cosmos for corporate leadership — and discovers the real science is in managing people? 🔬➡️👥  In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Jay Ramanah — physicist turned CEO, oil & gas superintendent, banking executive, and founder of MaxStaff.co — for a raw and unfiltered conversation about why HR needs a radical shake-up.  Jay shares his unconventional career journey from research physics to the frontlines of people management across industries like banking (Barclays), oil & gas, education, and consulting. He breaks down the 3 biggest challenges facing HR right now — skills shortages, AI disruption, and evolving workplace legislation — and delivers bold advice that some HR professionals might find controversial. The HR Engage Podcast is by HR people, for HR people. If you're in HR, people & culture, talent management, or business leadership — this episode is a must-listen.  Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    52 min
  7. HR Engage Podcast with Leanne Lazarus

    Jan 28

    HR Engage Podcast with Leanne Lazarus

    In this episode, host Jonathan Mamaril puts Leanne Lazarus—Queensland’s most sought-after HR recruitment specialist—in the hot seat for a conversation every HR professional needs to hear.  Leanne reveals:  • What the HR job market really looks like right now 📊 • The #1 mistake candidates make without realising it ❌ • Why she asks every client one simple question:  👉 “Is it a chair or a stool?”  Their answer tells her everything about whether HR is truly valued in that organisation.   🔑 You’ll learn:  → Why value alignment matters more than salary 💡 → The career advice early HR professionals learn too late ⏳ → How AI is reshaping recruitment (and what stays human) 🤖❤️ → Which roles are in highest demand right now 🔥 → How to know if an organisation truly values HR 🪑   Whether you’re:  • An HR leader building your team • An early-career professional planning your next move • Or somewhere in between  👉 This one’s for you. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    1h 2m
  8. HR Engage Podcast with Melitta McDonald

    12/16/2025

    HR Engage Podcast with Melitta McDonald

    She didn't choose HR — HR chose her. And it took 7 years, 11 schools, a construction site, and a whole lot of "I don't have all the answers" to get there.  In this raw and refreshingly honest conversation, Chief People Officer Melitta McDonald pulls back the curtain on what it ACTUALLY takes to build a thriving HR career — no sugarcoating, no corporate jargon, just real talk from someone who's been in the trenches (literally, on construction sites) and earned her seat at the executive table.  If you've ever felt like an imposter, wondered whether you're "qualified enough," or struggled to get leadership to take HR seriously... this episode is your permission slip to do things differently.   🔥 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:  The Unconventional Path That Works Melitta shares why working full-time while completing her degree over 7 years gave her an edge that fast-track graduates often miss. She breaks down the real-world benefits of learning HR "in the trenches" — handling contracts, policies, and difficult conversations WHILE studying the theory behind them.  The #1 Skill Every HR Professional Needs (It's Not What You Think) Forget policies and procedures. Melitta reveals that LISTENING — truly listening for what makes each person tick — is the foundational skill that transformed her career. She shares practical advice on how to develop this skill and why it matters more than knowing all the textbook answers.  How to Earn Respect in Male-Dominated Industries From corporate finance to construction to FMCG manufacturing, Melitta has navigated industries where HR was often seen as "the fun police." She shares exactly how she changed that perception, built credibility with skeptical teams, and grew female representation from near-zero to 41% in one organization.  Getting HR a Seat at the Leadership Table Tired of being seen as a "cost centre"? Melita reveals her strategy for becoming a true business partner — including how to speak the language of your ELT, present data that resonates, and build the trust that gets you invited into strategic conversations.  The Truth About Culture (That Most Managers Won't Like) Here's a controversial take: Culture is NOT HR's sole responsibility. Melitta makes the case for why every department — Finance, Operations, Sales — should have "and Culture" in their title, and how to get buy-in from leaders who think culture is just about Christmas parties and team lunches.  Managing a Multi-Generational, Multicultural Workforce With 48% of her workforce on visas and employees spanning FIVE generations, Melitta shares the retention and engagement strategies that actually work in today's complex workplace environment. 🎯 WHO IS THIS EPISODE FOR?  ✅ HR professionals feeling like they need "more qualifications" to succeed  ✅ Early-career HR practitioners looking for real-world guidance  ✅ HR generalists who love the breadth of the profession  ✅ Anyone struggling to get HR taken seriously by leadership  ✅ People leaders in male-dominated or blue-collar industries  ✅ HR managers dealing with multi-generational workforce challenges  ✅ Anyone who's ever felt like an imposter in their career Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

    47 min
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About

The HR Engage Podcast with your host Jonathan Mamaril. Join South Geldard Director and Head of the Employment Law team, Jonathan Mamaril as he speaks with HR teams and professionals about their journey into HR, why they are passionate about Human Resources, trends and challenges they are facing and what they believe is the future of HR.  This is a podcast by HR people for HR people – if you are starting out in the HR space, have some curiosity in the area, or a an experienced HR professional and leader this podcast is for anyone involved in the HR space talking with people just like you! There might be a golden nugget of advice or a different perspective that will be helpful in your HR journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Jonathan Mamaril
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 HR Engage Podcast
  • Show Website
    HR Engage Podcast

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