That Should Be Working!

TIUK

The podcast for anyone who's supposed to be doing something productive right now (but scrolling instead). We're diving into workplace pain-points, education successes and disasters, training fails, and all the messy life stuff that happens when you're allegedly an adult. Think chats by water cooler, career advice, with zero corporate buzzwords and 100% honest takes on why everything feels broken. Sharing our real life conversations with you! 

  1. Jun 1

    Don’t have kids? Why it’s none of our business

    Why Don't People Have Kids? This episode is a personal one. Join Coll + Rich as they have a candid conversation on Society, Choices, and Personal Values. In this episode, we explore the complex and deeply personal reasons behind choosing or not choosing to have children. Our discussion touches on societal expectations, cultural backgrounds, economic realities, and individual priorities. Whether you’re contemplating parenthood or just curious about diverse perspectives, this conversation offers valuable insights into modern life decisions. Main topics: Cultural and societal expectations around family and parenthoodPersonal values, long-term planning, and decision-making in relationshipsEconomic factors and housing market impacts on family planningThe social support structures and community dynamics related to raising childrenChallenging assumptions and respecting privacy in personal life choices Note: This conversation emphasizes respecting personal choices and understanding that decisions around parenthood are deeply individual. It’s okay to say “it’s none of your business” and prioritize privacy. Resources & Links: A blog on modern parenthood in the UK - https://www.fertilityfamily.co.uk/blog/beyond-the-birth-rate-the-real-factors-shaping-modern-parenthood-in-the-uk/Article discussing postnatal depression - https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/jan/28/seven-out-of-10-uk-mothers-feel-overloaded-research-revealsThe London housing crisis in numbers - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cgkg54nd5d5oArticle discussing falling enrolment rates in Tower Hamlets schools - https://parliamentnews.co.uk/tower-hamlets-schools-may-merge-due-to-falling-numbers/

    40 min

  2. May 11

    Career vs Commute, should you have to choose?

    In this episode join Rich + Coll as they explore the shifting landscape of work in a post-pandemic world, how commute times influence career decisions, and the broader societal impacts.  Join us as they discuss practical insights and future trends shaping employment and community development. Key Topics: The evolving importance of physical office presence versus remote workThe impact of remote work on opportunity access across social and geographic dividesThe societal and community implications of relocating or decentralizing workplacesOpportunities for investment in less-connected towns and regionsHow early career decisions around office work influence long-term career prospects

    32 min

  3. Apr 27

    Are student loans a tax on aspiration?

    Join Rich + Coll for their candid discussion on the UK's student loan system and whether they think it may be broken, not working and operating as a tax on aspiration. Together they share personal stories and experience with the system, providing a balanced voice of the many who feel it needs reform. Sources and additional reading: • https://www.rethinkrepayment.com/ - the organisation Rich referred to, campaigning for a fairer system. They can also be found on social media.

    32 min

  4. Apr 20

    Adulting costs too much, can we get a refund?

    In this episode, Rich and Coll have an open conversation about navigating adulthood today. Together they delve into adulthood and associated “adulting” being more than just responsibilities; it involves understanding a complex web of costs, expectations, and systemic issues that shape our financial lives. In this episode, they unpack the real burden of adulting—costs that weren’t fully disclosed and the desire to get a refund on the basis of goods not as described. Key topics: How adulting costs have exploded compared to previous generationsThe gap between wage growth and the rising cost of livingThe societal impact of the rise of subscription based business models and the move away from ownershipSystemic issues behind utility pricing and general corporate profiteeringDebate around accountability and transparency in corporate and government practices. Sources and additional reading: https://helpfulhousemates.co.uk/ - service where a lodger pays lower-than-market rent in exchange for a few hours of support a week.https://apple.news/AApUv_WuhSQyVGScNIUKXEQ - The story where we first heard of the Helpful Housemates CIC.https://apple.news/AxN9QDbyNSDGxaUfHCaDSdQ - The family who are squeezed and trying to get onto the property ladder.

    31 min

  5. Apr 13

    What does "exceeds expectations" actually pay?

    In this episode, Rich and Coll reflect on the true value and meaning of achieving an “exceeds expectations” grading in a formal performance review at work. Together they discuss their early work experiences, highlighting the importance of exposure, soft skills, and understanding the value of non-material rewards. They explore the balance between dedication and recognition, and how stepping outside of formal responsibilities can shape future opportunities but not necessarily guarantee them. Key topics: The spectrum of going above and beyond early in your career without immediate tangible rewardsHow office culture and expectations have evolved with remote workThe soft skills gained from taking on extra roles, like attending company events and participating in external meetingsThe relationship between effort, recognition, and reward in professional growthStrategies for documenting and leveraging extra responsibilities for future career movesHow to set boundaries to prevent burnout while still demonstrating initiative Sources and additional reading: https://hrsolutions-inc.com/2024/01/23/the-impact-of-going-above-and-beyond-on-your-career-and-life/  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24245551/  https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/a-deeper-wellness/202403/breaking-bad-when-overworking-becomes-problematic

    30 min

  6. Apr 6

    "My employer was my first investor"

    In the premiere episode of the second season, join Coll + Rich as they discuss how modern attitudes towards work, fulfilment, and side projects are shaping the entrepreneurial landscape. They explore the motivations behind starting side hustles, the risks involved, and how the pandemic has shifted our relationship with work and passion Key Topics: The increasing trend of side hustles and their correlation with workplace satisfactionHow companies are often unwitting investors in employee side projectsThe psychological needs served by passion projects, from esteem to self-actualisationThe critical timing and mindset shifts involved in transitioning from full-time employment to entrepreneurshipLegal and contractual considerations around IP and side businessesThe impact of cultural and economic changes post-COVID on flexible work and creative pursuitsThe importance of balancing passion projects with employment and avoiding burnout Sources and additional reading: https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/blog/workplace-mental-health-statistics-2026/   https://somethingbig.co.uk/employee-engagement-is-falling-in-2025-is-it-time-for-a-workplace-reset/ https://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/jobs/career-advice/9-to-5-job-funds-my-passion-project/

    31 min

  7. 11/03/2025

    Startup Grad: When it Doesn’t Work Out

    In the fourth instalment and final of the Startup Grad series, Coll + Rich discuss the challenges and realities of working in the startup world, tackling the unsexy side of startup life: what happens when things don't go to plan.  This episode revisits past experiences of the hosts explore the emotional and professional impacts of redundancy, the importance of aligning personal values with company pivots, and the significance of maintaining professional relationships. The conversation also touches on the pressures of burnout and the value of self-preservation in career decisions. Key Discussion Points include: How redundancies can occur even in successful companiesHow career pivots can offer new opportunities and growth.The dynamics of the startup world requiring adaptability and resilienceThe ugly truths of working in the world of start ups and tech The importance of how your network really is your net worth Important Takeaways for the Startup Graduate: It's essential to evaluate if a company's new direction aligns with your values and career aspirationsSelf-preservation is crucial when considering job changes.Maintaining relationships can be beneficial for future opportunities.Reputation is a key currency in the job market.It's important to assess your appetite for risk in a changing work environment.Burnout is a common issue in startups and should be considered in all decisions.What do you do when where you work seems to be on shaky ground? Are you riding the wave or jumping ship? Listen in, join the debate and let us know your comments. Get us at @thatshouldbeworkingpod on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    58 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    Startup Grad: What in the Benefit?

    In the 3rd instalment of The Startup Graduate Series, Coll + Rich bring you What in the Benefit?  Your That Should be Working! hosts unpack the world of startup benefits, job security, and realistic perks. They break down what to look for in job descriptions, what to get in writing, and how to tell whether that shiny “equity package” or “wellness budget” is truly worth it. Some statutory benefits or employee rights in the UK (as of 2025): Paid annual leave (pro rata for part-time)Statutory sick payStatutory Maternity and Paternity leave and payNotice periods and redundancyStatutory pension (Contributions - 3% employer, employee 5%)Key Takeaways: Cash, pension, and paid time off are still king - don’t let equity or office snacks distract you.Always confirm in writing any promises about bonuses, allowances, or wellness perks.Understand the difference between equity and stock options before accepting less pay.Professional development isn’t a luxury - it’s a necessity for your long-term career.Startup success stories are rare. Know your risk appetite before you sign.Listeners should research and compare what’s legally required with what is being offered, to properly determine if it is a benefit. Next week, we’ll dive into “When It Doesn’t Work Out” — what to do when your startup hits turbulence, funding dries up, and or redundancies begin. Listen in, join the debate and let us know your comments. Get us at @thatshouldbeworkingpod on Instagram, LinkedIn and TikTok.

    33 min
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About

The podcast for anyone who's supposed to be doing something productive right now (but scrolling instead). We're diving into workplace pain-points, education successes and disasters, training fails, and all the messy life stuff that happens when you're allegedly an adult. Think chats by water cooler, career advice, with zero corporate buzzwords and 100% honest takes on why everything feels broken. Sharing our real life conversations with you! 

Information

  • Creator
    TIUK
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 That Should Be Working!
  • Show Website
    That Should Be Working!