The HE Consultant's Toolkit

Karen Heard-Lauréote - KHL Consulting
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In The HE Consultant’s Toolkit podcast, Professor Karen Heard-Lauréote, Founder, Director, and Principal Consultant at KHL Consulting, shares insights into the world of higher education consultancy. Whether you’re new to consultancy, considering it a career move, or an experienced consultant, this podcast explores some of the foundational skills that all HE Consultants need to survive and thrive.

  1. Jun 23

    Is this still working? Reviewing and recalibrating independent work over time

    Episode summaryThis final episode of Series 4 explores the importance of periodically reviewing and recalibrating independent work in higher education. It reflects on changing definitions of success, maintenance mode, professional identity, sustainability, pace, and long-term alignment. Key takeaways Independent work requires intentional review as well as deliveryFamiliarity is not always the same as alignmentMaintenance mode can quietly crowd out reflectionDefinitions of success often evolve over timeRecalibration is usually a sign of professional maturity rather than instabilitySustainable work involves recognising changing rhythms, priorities, and forms of valueIntentional pauses are an important part of strategic practiceFurther resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE?My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps.https://khlconsulting.co.uk/coursesKHL Consulting websitehttps://www.khlconsulting.co.u​k​LinkedIn profile for Karen Heard-Lauréotehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhlNetwork for ​T​ertiary Education Consultants​ (NTEC)https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Calls to actionSubscribe and share​: If you’ve enjoyed this series of The HE Consultant’s Toolkit, please subscribe and share it with colleagues and others working independently in higher education.Connect on LinkedIn: I’d welcome your reflections on the themes explored throughout this series.​ You can connect with me on LinkedIn:​ https://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhlLook out for Series 5​: The podcast will return in September with a new series exploring further aspects of independent work in and around higher education.

  2. May 26

    Collaborating without losing independence

    Episode summary This episode explores the opportunities and tensions involved in collaboration for consultants and freelancers working in higher education. It reflects on the different forms collaboration can take, the trade-offs involved in shared work, and the importance of maintaining professional standards, identity, and direction when working with others. The episode considers issues such as alignment of expectations, ownership and visibility, communication, accountability, and the long-term impact collaborations can have on reputation and future opportunities. It invites listeners to think more strategically about how collaboration shapes their independent work over time. Key Takeaways Collaboration is not neutral and gradually shapes professional directionDifferent forms of collaboration carry different levels of influence, visibility, and responsibilityAlignment of standards and expectations is essential for sustainable collaborative work Questions of ownership, attribution, and intellectual contribution deserve careful considerationCommunication structures influence how effectively collaborative work functionsStrategic collaboration should strengthen rather than dilute independent professional identityReflective questioning before entering collaborations can prevent future misalignment Further resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE? My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps.https://khlconsulting.co.uk/coursesKHL Consulting websitehttps://www.khlconsulting.co.ukLinkedIn profile for Karen Heard-Lauréotehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhlNetwork for Tertiary Education Consultantshttps://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Calls to action Subscribe and share: If you are enjoying this series of The HE Consultant’s Toolkit, please subscribe and share it with colleagues and others working independently in higher education.Connect on LinkedIn: I’d be very interested to hear your reflections on collaboration, partnership working, and independent practice. You can connect with via: https://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhlLook out for the final episode in the series: The final episode of Series 4 will be released next month before the summer break. Make sure you are subscribed so you do not miss it.

    Collaborating without losing independence

  3. Apr 28

    The Ethics of Independent Work

    Episode summary This episode explores the ethical dimensions of independent work in higher education, focusing on the judgement required to navigate complex, ambiguous situations. It considers issues such as independence, scope, confidentiality, impact, and professional sustainability. Key takeaways Ethical challenges in independent work are often ambiguous rather than clear-cutIndependence requires careful navigation of influence and expectationScope, confidentiality, and impact all involve judgement callsSustainability is an ethical as well as a personal considerationEthical practice involves reflection rather than rigid rulesFurther Resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE? My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps. https://khlconsulting.co.uk/courses KHL Consulting websitehttps://www.khlconsulting.co.uk LinkedIn profile for Karen Heard-Lauréotehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Network for Tertiaty Education Consultants (NTEC)https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Next steps Subscribe and share: If you are finding this series helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network. Connect on LinkedIn: I would welcome your reflections on the episode.https://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Look out for the next episode: The next episode will be released soon. Make sure you are subscribed so you do not miss it.

    The Ethics of Independent Work

  4. Mar 31

    Who gets to work with you? Building a client fit filter

    This episode explores how client selection shapes the sustainability, reputation, and intellectual satisfaction of independent work in higher education. It introduces the concept of a client fit filter and reflects on how consultants and freelancers can make more strategic choices about which projects to accept and which to decline. Key takeaways The mix of clients you work with gradually shapes your professional lifeA client fit filter can guide decisions about new workWorking relationships, clarity of purpose, and values alignment all matterEarly signals in conversations often reveal project conditionsClient choices influence long-term reputation and referral networksLinks to relevant resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE?My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps.https://khlconsulting.co.uk/courses KHL Consulting websitehttps://www.khlconsulting.co.uk LinkedIn profile for Karen Heard-Lauréotehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Network for Educational Enhancement Consultantshttps://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Subscribe and shareIf you are finding this series helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network. Connect on LinkedInI would welcome your reflections on the episode.https://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Look out for the next episodeThe next episode will be released soon. Make sure you are subscribed so you do not miss it.

    Who gets to work with you? Building a client fit filter

  5. Feb 24

    Beyond the day rate: developing income that supports sustainability

    Episode summary This episode explores income beyond the day rate as a strategic and ethical issue in independent work in higher education. It reflects on the limitations of time-based pricing, the trade-offs involved in alternative income arrangements, and the importance of aligning income structures with long-term sustainability rather than short-term busyness. Key takeaways The day rate is not the problem, but it is rarely sufficient on its own Income structures shape vulnerability, choice, and sustainability Different income models involve different trade-offs Sustainable portfolios are often uneven rather than elegant Strategic thinking about income requires attention to time horizons Links to relevant resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE?My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps.https://khlconsulting.co.uk/courses KHL Consulting websitehttps://www.khlconsulting.co.uk LinkedIn profile — Karen Heard-Lauréotehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Network for Educational Enhancement Consultantshttps://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Subscribe and shareIf you are finding this series helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network. Connect on LinkedInI’d welcome your reflections on the episode.https://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Look out for the next episodeThe next episode will be released soon. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

    Beyond the day rate: developing income that supports sustainability

  6. Jan 26

    Getting Strategic: What Do You Want This to Become?

    Podcast summary This opening episode of Series 4 marks a shift in focus for The HE Consultant’s Toolkit. Moving beyond questions of survival and capacity, it explores what it means to work strategically on an independent practice in higher education. The episode invites experienced consultants and freelancers to step back from delivery mode and consider what they are building over time. It reflects on intentional choice, sustainability, and the difference between reacting to opportunities and shaping a practice that aligns with professional values and long-term aspirations. Rather than offering quick fixes, the episode creates space for reflection and sets the foundation for a series focused on strategy, ethics, and long-term practice design. Key takeaways Strategy in independent work is less about growth and more about intentional choice A full diary does not necessarily indicate a well-designed practice Sustaining a practice and shaping a practice are related but distinct forms of work Long-term viability requires periodic reflection, not just operational efficiency Asking “what do I want this to become?” is a strategic act in its own right Links to relevant resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE? My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps.Find out more at: https://khlconsulting.co.uk/courses KHL Consulting websitehttps://www.khlconsulting.co.uk LinkedIn profile — Karen Heard-Lauréotehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Network for Educational Enhancement Consultants (NEEC)https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Calls to action Subscribe and shareIf you enjoyed this episode or are finding this series helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network. Connect on LinkedInI’d welcome your reflections on today’s episode. You can connect with me on LinkedIn at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Look out for the next episodeThe next episode will be released soon. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it.

    Getting Strategic: What Do You Want This to Become?

  7. 11/24/2025

    When You're the Brand: Independent Work and Identity

    Summary: In this reflective closing episode of Series 3, Karen explores the emotional and strategic dimensions of building a consultancy or freelance practice where you are the brand. From managing visibility to handling rejection, setting boundaries to staying authentic, this episode offers grounded insights into what it means to work in a way that reflects who you are and sustains you for the long haul. Key Takeaways:You are the brand and that brings both visibility and vulnerabilityAuthenticity doesn’t require overexposure choose what and how you shareRejection is hard, but not always personal timing and fit matter tooVisibility is part of the job not vanity, but contribution and connectionYou can shape your practice intentionally and it’s worth pausing to reflect on how Links to Relevant Resources: Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE?  My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps. Find out more at khlconsulting.co.uk/courses KHL Consulting Website: www.khlconsulting.co.uk LinkedIn Profile for Karen Heard-Lauréote: www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Network for Educational Enhancement Consultants: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Calls to action: Subscribe and Share: If you enjoyed this episode or are finding this series or previous ones helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network. Connect on LinkedIn: I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s podcast, so feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Look Out for Series 4 Episode 1: We’ll be back soon with the next episode. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it!

    When You're the Brand: Independent Work and Identity

  8. 10/28/2025

    Working at Capacity and Knowing When to Say No

    Podcast Summary In this episode, Karen Heard-Lauréote reflects on one of the most important and most difficult aspects of running a consultancy or freelance practice: recognising when you're at full capacity and how to say no with care and confidence. She explores the signs of overload, the quiet guilt of turning down work and the long-term value of becoming more selective. Drawing on lived experience, this episode offers practical strategies for protecting your time, energy and quality of work while maintaining relationships and your professional reputation. This one’s for anyone who’s ever said “yes” out of obligation, and later wondered how to claw back time for what matters. Key Takeaways Over-commitment has a cost: Every “yes” uses up your creative, emotional and physical energy, not just your time. Capacity can be subtle: The signs you’re over capacity aren’t always dramatic. They can be subtle signs, such as brain fog, irritability, or a tendency to procrastinate. Saying no protects quality: Turning down work helps ensure the work you do take on gets your full attention and care. You can say no without burning bridges: Being honest, prompt, and helpful (such as recommending someone else) helps preserve relationships. Project stacking is risky: Overlapping work can lead to blurred focus, deadline collisions, and compromised delivery. Pause before you accept: Ask yourself whether the work aligns with your energy, values, and future direction. Space enables sustainability: Saying no makes room for the non-billable work that sustains your practice, like writing, reflection, or rest. Links to Relevant Resources Thinking about going freelance or setting up a consultancy in HE? My short courses offer practical guidance to help you take the first steps. Find out more at khlconsulting.co.uk/coursesKHL Consulting Website: www.khlconsulting.co.ukLinkedIn Profile for Karen Heard-Lauréote: www.linkedin.com/in/profkhlNetwork for Educational Enhancement Consultants: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14409504/ Calls to Action Subscribe and Share: If you enjoyed this episode or are finding this series or previous ones helpful, please subscribe and share it with your network.Connect on LinkedIn: I’d love to hear your thoughts on today’s podcast, so feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/profkhl Look Out for Series 3 Episode 3: We’ll be back soon with the next episode. Make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss it!

    Working at Capacity and Knowing When to Say No
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About

In The HE Consultant’s Toolkit podcast, Professor Karen Heard-Lauréote, Founder, Director, and Principal Consultant at KHL Consulting, shares insights into the world of higher education consultancy. Whether you’re new to consultancy, considering it a career move, or an experienced consultant, this podcast explores some of the foundational skills that all HE Consultants need to survive and thrive.

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  • Creator
    Karen Heard-Lauréote - KHL Consulting
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Karen Heard-Lauréote - KHL Consulting
  • Show Website
    The HE Consultant's Toolkit