In The Mixx: People and Talent

MIXXOS Group
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Diving into the stories, challenges and successes shaping the world of HR and Talent. Each episode, we sit down with the people behind the company — HR leaders, talent experts and business innovators — to uncover what really drives great teams and thriving workplaces.

Episodes

  1. Feb 11 ·  Bonus

    HR Burnout: Who’s Looking After the People Who Look After Everyone Else? | Dr Jo Burrell

    In this bonus episode of In The Mixx, Gemma Downing of MIXXOS Group is joined by Dr Jo Burrell, Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder of Ultimate Resilience, for an honest and eye-opening conversation about mental wellbeing, burnout and the growing pressures facing HR and People professionals. HR and Talent teams are expected to support everyone else — from employee wellbeing and workplace conflict to restructures, difficult conversations and increasingly complex people challenges. But who is supporting the people doing that work? Jo shares insights from the HR Mental Wellbeing research conducted by Ultimate Resilience, revealing the scale of burnout, anxiety, depression and low wellbeing across the profession, as well as the impact this is having on retention and the future of HR. The conversation explores why highly conscientious HR professionals can be particularly vulnerable to burnout, the early warning signs to look out for, and why simply telling people to practise more "self-care" isn't enough. Gemma and Jo also discuss the emotional and psychological demands of HR and Talent roles, the impact of AI on the profession, the importance of community and peer connection, and why structured support such as professional supervision could play a much bigger role in protecting the people who support everyone else. A must-listen for HR, People, Talent and recruitment professionals who want to understand the realities of burnout — and what organisations can do differently. Who is this episode for: • HR and People professionals at every level • Talent and recruitment leaders • People Directors, HRBPs and HR Managers • Lone HR practitioners and small People teams • Business leaders responsible for HR and Talent functions • Anyone interested in workplace wellbeing, resilience and the future of HR 🔗 Connect with the guest Dr Jo Burrell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jo-burrell-04901a96/ Ultimate Resilience: https://www.ultimateresilience.co.uk/ 🔗 Connect with the host Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #HR #HRWellbeing #HRBurnout #PeopleProfessionals #Talent #TalentManagement #Recruitment #MentalHealthAtWork #WorkplaceWellbeing #HRLeadership #EmployeeWellbeing #Resilience

  2. 12/19/2025

    Is Your Talent Strategy Ready for 2026? Jamie Burrows on AI, Candidate Experience & Human Connection

    In the season finale of In The Mixx, Chris and Gemma from MIXXOS Group are joined by recruitment trainer and people development specialist Jamie Burrows for a wide-ranging conversation about the challenges facing HR and Talent teams in 2026. Jamie shares his unconventional journey into recruitment and training before diving into the issues that matter most to modern Talent and HR professionals — from building proactive talent pipelines and improving candidate experience to developing internal teams and getting senior leaders to invest in people development. A major theme throughout the conversation is the growing impact of AI. Jamie argues that as technology takes over more of the recruitment process, genuine human connection will become an even greater competitive advantage. For Talent teams, that means getting out from behind the keyboard, building relationships, networking and creating meaningful conversations with candidates before a vacancy even exists. They also explore why many organisations remain too reactive in their approach to Talent Acquisition, relying heavily on job boards and outdated job descriptions rather than building communities of passive talent. Jamie also shares his thoughts on: - Why internal Talent teams can learn from the proactive strategies used by agency recruiters - Building talent pipelines before you have an active vacancy - Improving candidate experience and communication - Why so many job adverts fail to attract the people organisations actually want - The importance of employer and personal branding in Talent Acquisition - Getting hiring managers and senior leaders to engage with Talent teams - The skills internal recruiters need to develop - Using phone calls, LinkedIn, video, voice notes and other channels to create genuine engagement - Whether organisations should publish salaries in job adverts - The future of HR, Talent and recruitment in an increasingly AI-driven world And, as the final episode of Season 1, there’s plenty of honest discussion, debate and plenty of laughs along the way. Who this episode is for: HR Leaders, Talent Acquisition Leaders, Internal Recruiters, HR Business Partners, People & Culture professionals, Recruitment Leaders and anyone responsible for attracting, developing and retaining talent. 🔗 Connect with the guest Jamie Burrows: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-burrows-training/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #HR #TalentAcquisition #TalentStrategy #Recruitment #HRLeadership #CandidateExperience #EmployerBranding #TalentManagement #FutureOfWork #PeopleDevelopment #InternalRecruitment #AIinHR #HRTech #TalentLeadership

  3. 12/12/2025

    Leading With Heart: Navigating HR, Restructures & Resilience with Anita Scales

    In this powerful and deeply honest episode of In The Mixx, hosts Chris and Gemma sit down with Anita Scales, HR Business Partner at the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team. Anita opens up about her extensive HR career across industries including Formula One, aerospace, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and EV technology. She reflects on the evolution of her people-first approach, the emotional weight of leading difficult restructures, the importance of clarity and communication, and the ongoing battle between “heart vs. head” in HR. The conversation dives into: Anita’s unconventional path into HR and what has kept her in the function for decadesThe human impact of restructures, redundancies, and organisational change — and how to manage them with empathyThe personal toll HR leaders carry during turbulent periodsHow to rebuild teams, morale, and culture after major organisational shiftsWhy clarity in communication is the #1 tool in moments of uncertaintyThe importance of grounding values, strong support systems, and knowing your “why”The problem with current recruitment processes, AI-driven screening, and outdated interviewing methodsWhat companies really miss when they prioritise “tick-box hiring” over mindset and cultural fitCareer resilience, self-belief, and the honest reality of job-seeking at senior levelsThe advice Anita gives her children — and the advice she gives every professional navigating their career This one is heartfelt, candid, and packed with wisdom for anyone who works in HR, leads teams, hires people, or has ever navigated change at work. ✨ Who This Episode Is For HR leaders, HRBPs, talent partners & organisational development professionalsRecruitment consultants, in-house recruiters & talent acquisition teamsSenior leaders managing people through uncertaintyCandidates navigating the job market and hiring processesAnyone interested in the human side of leadership, empathy, resilience & cultureFans of behind-the-scenes insight from the world of Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 🔗 Connect with the guest Anita Scales: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anita-scales-527129a3/ Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team: https://www.mercedesamgf1.com/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #MIXXOS #Podcast #HRLeadership #MercedesAMGF1 #HRBP #PeopleAndCulture #OrganisationalChange #CareerDevelopment #RecruitmentInsights #ResilienceAtWork #EmpathyInLeadership #TeamCulture #F1Business #WomenInHR

  4. 12/05/2025

    Why People Still Matter: A Deep Dive into Modern HR with Sara Longley of SKF Group

    In this episode of In The Mixx, hosts Chris and Gemma sit down with the brilliant and brilliantly human Sara Longley, People Experience Country Lead for the UK at SKF Group. With nearly 30 years in HR, Fellowship status with the CIPD, and experience across fire services, ambulance trusts, manufacturing, and more, Sara brings a rare blend of candour, compassion, and straight-talk practicality. This episode dives into the real side of HR — far beyond policies and procedures. Sara opens up about: Her decades-long journey from receptionist to senior HR leadershipHow HR has shifted from “tea & sympathy” to people experienceWhy genuine conversations matter more than any competency frameworkChange management inside an ever-evolving global manufacturing giantThe ethical backbone of modern HR: doing the right thing, even when it’s hardHer take on AI in HR — from early scepticism to full-blown fanThe importance of dropping degree-fixation and hiring for behavioursWhy early-career HR pros still NEED those foundational skillsAnd the one neighbour who changed the entire trajectory of her life From the big cultural shifts in HR to the gritty realities on the shop floor, Sara shares stories that are equal parts inspiring, funny, and downright honest. If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the HR curtain — this episode will be your new favourite. Who This Episode Is For HR professionals at any stage of their careerPeople leaders navigating organisational changeFounders, hiring managers & business owners who want to understand HR beyond the buzzwordsAnyone curious about the future of HR, AI adoption, and the evolving people landscapeListeners who love real talk, real stories, and zero sugar-coating 🔗 Connect with the guest Sara Longley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-longley-fcipd-104b8565/ SKF Group: https://www.skf.com/uk 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #MIXXOS #SKF #HRLeadership #PeopleExperience #CIPD #HumanResources #ChangeManagement #ManufacturingHR #FutureOfWork #AIinHR #Leadership #PeopleFirst

  5. 11/28/2025

    Transparency, Fairness & The Future of Talent: A Deep-Dive with Alys Martin

    In this episode of In The Mixx, hosts Chris and Gemma sit down with Alys Martin of Terrapinn — an experienced People leader known for championing transparency, fairness, and truly human-centred HR. Alys brings a refreshingly honest, no-nonsense perspective on what’s really happening inside HR and recruitment today. From broken interview processes and outdated hiring mindsets, to the rise of AI and the need for businesses to properly value their people, this one is packed with insight. Together, they dig into: Alys’ unconventional career journey from publishing to TV, to startups, HR, leadership and TerrapinnThe critical importance of “human in the loop” when adopting AIWhy recruitment processes are failing candidates, and why bad hiring is disrespectful, lazy and expensiveThe degree debate: why outdated criteria restrict talent and create biasHow businesses can slow down, think intentionally, and design thoughtful hiring strategiesThe art of giving difficult news with clarity, compassion and couragePsychological safety, vulnerability in leadership, and why “having it all together” is a mythHow compensation structures can promote fairness, inclusion and transparencyWhy companies should ditch the “one-size-fits-all” reward modelBuilding progression frameworks for scaling teams (10 to 50+ employees)The power of saying yes to opportunities early in your careerThe biggest disruptor coming to HR (hint: it’s not just AI — it’s the changing nature of roles)Why human connection is becoming more valuable than ever in a digital-first world Alys is sharp, candid, and deeply human — expect practical truths, relatable stories, and some serious reality checks for hiring managers everywhere. Who This Episode Is For HR leaders who want to build people-first culturesFounders and hiring managers scaling teamsRecruiters frustrated with broken, outdated processesPeople & Talent professionals designing fairer pay and progression frameworksAnyone navigating redundancy, feedback conversations, or leadership challengesProfessionals exploring how AI will reshape HR and the workforce 🔗 Connect with the guest Alys Martin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alys-martin/ Terrapinn: https://www.terrapinn.com/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #HRLeadership #PeopleFirst #Recruitment #TalentAcquisition #HRStrategy #FutureOfWork #AlysMartin #Terrapinn #InTheMixx #MIXXOS #HumanResources #ScalingBusinesses #EmployeeExperience #AIandHR

  6. 11/21/2025

    Keely Herring: Owning Neurodiversity and Changing How We Hire

    In this powerful episode of In The Mixx, hosts Chris and Gemma talk with Keely Herring, Talent Acquisition Lead at Personal Group, about her journey, her advocacy for neurodiversity, and how she’s helping reshape what inclusive hiring really looks like. Keely shares how her personal experiences with dyslexia and self-doubt became the driving force behind her passion for equality, diversity, inclusion, and belonging (EDI&B). She offers candid insight into the realities of neurodiversity in the workplace—and how understanding difference can transform culture, leadership, and hiring outcomes. This conversation explores: How personal challenges shaped Keely’s leadership style and empathyThe subtle ways bias still impacts recruitment—and how to address itWhy inclusive hiring starts with getting the basics rightThe growing role (and risk) of AI in talent acquisitionThe misconceptions around neurodiversity at workWhy authenticity and understanding create stronger teams Keely’s perspective is both practical and deeply human—a reminder that inclusion isn’t about policy, it’s about people. Who this episode is for: For HR and talent leaders, hiring managers, and anyone passionate about creating workplaces where neurodiverse and underrepresented voices are empowered to succeed. It’s also an encouraging listen for anyone navigating their own differences at work. 🔗 Connect with the guest Keely Herring: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keely-herring/ Personal Group: https://www.personalgroup.com/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #KeelyHerring #Podcast #Recruitment #Neurodiversity #EDI #Inclusion #TalentAcquisition #Leadership #PersonalGroup #WorkplaceCulture #HR

  7. 11/14/2025

    Building Communities and Championing Inclusive Talent — with Nerida Rooney of RICS

    In this episode of In The Mixx, hosts Chris and Gemma sit down with Nerida Rooney, Global Head of Talent Acquisition at RICS, for a powerful conversation about community, inclusion, and the future of talent acquisition. Nerida shares her journey from Australia to the UK and her rise through the recruitment world, revealing how communities have shaped her career and why authentic human connection remains at the heart of professional growth. She discusses her work driving global talent transformation, building diverse pipelines, and redefining what meaningful inclusion looks like in hiring. The discussion explores: The role of communities in professional development and overcoming imposter syndromePost-pandemic shifts in workplace learning and collaborationBalancing flexibility, family, and leadership as a working parentWhy inclusive hiring is about widening the gate, not ticking boxesThe evolving identity of talent leaders and the need for stronger boardroom voicesFuture disruptors in the talent space — and why the next generation of leaders must think differently Listeners will also hear Nerida’s reflections on mentorship, personal growth, and the power of saying yes to opportunities — even before you feel ready. Who this episode is for: Talent acquisition and HR professionals seeking inspiration from a seasoned leaderBusiness and people leaders looking to build inclusive, value-driven organisationsRecruiters aiming to rethink hiring beyond metricsWorking parents balancing leadership and lifeAnyone passionate about the power of community in shaping careers 🔗 Connect with the guest Nerida Rooney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neridarooney/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #TalentAcquisition #Recruitment #HRCommunity #Leadership #Inclusion #Diversity #RICS #CareerGrowth #FutureOfWork #WomenInLeadership #EmployerBranding

  8. 11/07/2025

    Work Ethic, Risk, and Resilience: Lucie McMillan on Global HR and Cultural Balance

    In this episode of In The Mixx, Chris and Gemma sit down with Lucie McMillan, manager of Human Resources for EMEA at Rochester Electronics. Lucie shares her personal and professional journey from the Czech Republic to the UK, discussing how her cultural background, determination, and strong work ethic have shaped her global HR career. Lucie reflects on her early experiences as a nanny in England, her entry into HR through the food and beverage industry, and how stepping outside her comfort zone helped her grow into a leadership role. She offers thoughtful insights on adapting to cultural differences, leading multicultural teams, and maintaining authenticity in leadership. The conversation covers: Cultural contrasts between Czech and UK work ethicsHow adaptability and openness define effective HR leadershipThe impact of flexible and remote work on younger generationsBalancing family, travel, and professional ambitionThe importance of speaking up and standing firm in corporate environmentsWhy passion and self-awareness are essential for career longevity Lucie also shares her views on modern hiring challenges, including assessing real motivation, job-hopping stigma, and the evolving expectations of today’s workforce. Who this episode is for: HR and talent acquisition professionals navigating cultural and generational shiftsBusiness leaders building diverse and distributed teamsProfessionals balancing ambition, family, and wellbeingAnyone seeking inspiration to take career risks and lead with authenticity 🔗 Connect with the guest Lucie McMillan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucie-mcmillan-assoc-cipd-6489a451/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixxPodcast #HumanResources #Leadership #CulturalIntelligence #CareerGrowth #Recruitment #WorkEthic #WomenInHR #HRLeadership #GlobalTeams

  9. 10/31/2025

    Leap of Faith: Redefining People, Culture, and Learning with Jules Quinn

    This episode of In The Mixx dives deep into the world of people, purpose, and transformation in education with Jules Quinn, Group Director of People Services at Milton Keynes College Group. Jules shares her non-linear career journey—from financial services to teaching to senior HR leadership—and the leaps of faith that shaped her path. The conversation explores how culture, kindness, and connection drive retention and engagement across education, why transferable skills matter more than perfect CVs, and how Milton Keynes College is rethinking talent attraction in a skills-short market. Chris and Gemma also unpack with Jules the growing importance of neurodiversity and accessibility, how to make hiring genuinely inclusive, and what the future holds for communication, leadership, and emerging generations entering the workforce. Expect insight on everything from ethical employment practices to the evolving digital landscape in education. A refreshingly honest and human look at the realities of leading people through change — and why bravery and self-belief can be career game-changers. Who this episode is for: HR and People Leaders in education and public sectorsTalent acquisition professionals exploring inclusive recruitmentLearning and development specialistsAnyone navigating career change or leading through transformation 🔗 Connect with the guest Jules Quinn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jules-quinn/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #CareerJourney #PeopleLeadership #EducationSector #CultureAndEngagement #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #TalentStrategy #EthicalWorkplaces #AIAndEducation #FutureOfWork #InTheMixxPodcast

  10. 10/24/2025

    From Lipsticks to Leadership: Natalie Gibbings on Redefining Talent, Culture & Women’s Health

    In this inspiring episode of In The Mixx, hosts Chris and Gemma sit down with Natalie Gibbings, Head of Talent Acquisition at Aiimi, to unpack her incredible and unconventional career journey — from makeup artistry to leading talent strategy in one of the UK’s most forward-thinking data and AI consultancies. Natalie opens up about: ✨ How she fell into recruitment and learned to blend empathy with strategy. 🏗️ Building Aiimi’s first internal TA team from scratch — transforming reactive hiring into a proactive, culture-driven powerhouse. 🏢 Turning Aiimi’s Milton Keynes HQ into a community hub with 140+ local events, elevating the employer brand and helping the business double in size. 💡 Why recruitment should always be quality over quantity, and how personalisation still beats automation. 🤝 The importance of representation, psychological safety, and leadership transparency in scaling culture. 💬 Her deeply personal journey with endometriosis — and how Aiimi’s incredible support empowered her recovery, proving what truly people-first companies look like. 🧠 Her thoughts on the future of AI in talent acquisition — where technology should assist, not replace, the human touch. 🌍 Plus, why she’s championing more collaboration between internal TA teams regionally and within Milton Keynes’ growing tech scene. Packed with practical takeaways and heartfelt insights, this conversation reminds us that recruitment is about people, purpose, and progress — not just placements. 👥 Who This Episode Is For Talent Acquisition and HR professionals looking to humanise hiring while scaling fast.Business leaders wanting to strengthen culture through authentic inclusion and empathy.Recruiters navigating the balance between tech, automation, and personal connection.Anyone passionate about women’s health, wellbeing, and leadership in the workplace. 🔗 Connect with the guest Natalie Gibbings: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-gibbings-3b732170/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ Listen to In The Mixx on another platform: https://linktr.ee/inthemixx_podcast #InTheMixx #RecruitmentPodcast #TalentAcquisition #EmployerBranding #WomenInLeadership #EndometriosisAwareness #CultureFirst #HRCommunity #Aiimi #MIXXOS #RecruitmentTransformation #InclusionAtWork #FutureOfWork #AIFuture #PeopleStrategy

  11. 10/17/2025

    From Burnout to Breakthrough: Nitin Sharma’s Unfiltered Recruitment Journey

    In this first raw and honest episode of In The Mixx, co-hosts Chris and Gemma kick off with Rectools.io founder and RecTalk host Nitin Sharma to unpack his remarkable journey through the highs and lows of recruitment, entrepreneurship, and mental resilience. From walking into a job interview and leaving with a job at Michael Page, to co-founding and scaling a recruitment agency that ultimately collapsed under pressure, Nitin shares what really happened behind the scenes—including how personal tragedy, broken partnerships, and financial burdens nearly pushed him over the edge. But this isn’t a story of defeat—it’s a powerful comeback. Learn how Nitin pivoted to build Rectools.io—a first-of-its-kind platform and community directory for recruitment tech—and how his podcast, RecTalk, unexpectedly became his lifeline and biggest asset. This episode covers: The real reason his first business failed (and the red flags he ignored)Mental health, identity, and growing up with bias in the workplaceHow RecTalk went from a side project to a 70k-subscriber media platformWhy community-first networking (like The Recruitment Curry Club) is changing the industryThe role of AI in recruitment and how Nitin used ChatGPT to escape a £500k liabilityWhy the future of recruitment is human-first—despite the tech Who this episode is for: Recruitment founders juggling burnout, growth, and strategyTech-enabled recruiters curious about AI and GPT use casesHR and TA professionals seeking community beyond KPIsAnyone craving a brutally honest look at what it really takes to rebuild from the ground up 🔗 Connect with the guest Nitin Sharma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nitin-rectools/ Rectools.io: https://www.rectools.io/ RecTalk: https://rectalk.co.uk/ 🔗 Connect with the hosts Gemma: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmadowning4/ Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismappsomnium/ MIXXOS Group: https://mixxos.com/ #RecruitmentTech #RecTalk #Rectools #InTheMixx #AIinRecruitment #MentalHealthInWork #RecruitmentLeadership #FounderStory #HRCommunity #PodcastGrowth #RecruitmentEvents #CurryClub #RecCircle #NitinSharma #GPTforBusiness

  • 11 Episodes

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Diving into the stories, challenges and successes shaping the world of HR and Talent. Each episode, we sit down with the people behind the company — HR leaders, talent experts and business innovators — to uncover what really drives great teams and thriving workplaces.

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