HR Hacks & Halos

In this final episode of Season 1, Jivan takes a look back at the various powerful themes explored throughout the season, including the impact of NDAs on silencing victims, the challenges of toxic leadership, and the importance of emotional vulnerability in the workplace. Make sure you stay tuned for Season 2, as Jivan continues her deep dive into the future of HR. KEY TAKEAWAYS The podcast highli...

Jivan looks at the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the workforce, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges it presents. Drawing on insights from notable figures like Ulrika Johnson and Senator Bernie Sanders, she highlights the stark divide emerging between those empowered by AI and those at risk of being left behind KEY TAKEAWAYS AI is rapidly transforming the j...

In this episode, Jivan sits down with Dimitri Coumbias, CHRO at Finera, a rapidly growing fintech start-up. They delve into the challenges and opportunities that arise during periods of hypergrowth, emphasising the critical importance of maintaining company culture amidst rapid scaling. Dimitri shares insights on the intentionality required in hiring practices, the significance of preserving the o...

Jivan investigates the often daunting topic of networking, transforming it from a source of anxiety into a powerful tool for career and business advancement and, importantly, personal branding in a physical and digital world. She shares insights on how effective networking can unlock hidden job and business opportunities by fostering meaningful connections. Jivan emphasises the importance of refra...

Today, Jivan interviews Andrea Burns, founder of Catapult Solutions, a company that specialises in creating positive company cultures. Andrea explains how enabling company culture is the key to an organisation's success and shares her personal experiences with toxic work environments. Andrea introduces her unique framework, Axiometrics, which uses a mathematical model to help companies understand...

In this episode, Jivan addresses the critical issue of suicide in the workplace, coinciding with World Suicide Prevention Day. Drawing from personal experiences and stark statistics, Jivan emphasises the responsibility of all employees, not just HR professionals, to recognise warning signs and foster a supportive environment. The episode explores the complexities surrounding suicide, including its...

In today's episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with high-performance coach and hypnotherapist Stuart Wade. They explore the critical concept of a Leadership Mindset, delving into the nuances of what it means to lead effectively in today's complex workplace. Stuart shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the importance of aligning one's subconscious and co...

In this episode, Jivan delves into the concept of 'othering', exploring why individuals and groups are often treated as fundamentally different from the norm. Drawing on insights from a previous discussion with Michelle Hartley, Jivan examines the psychological underpinnings of othering, its implications in society, and its pervasive impact within workplace culture. KEY TAKEAWAYS Othering is the a...

Jivan holds a thought-provoking conversation with Michelle Hartley, founder of People Sorted, about the UK Supreme Court's ruling on the legal definition of female and its implications for trans rights in society and the workplace. Together they look into the emotional responses elicited by the ruling, the divisive reactions within the community, and the urgent need for HR professionals to respond...

In this episode, Jivan delves into the pressing issue of age discrimination in the workplace. Drawing on over 20 years of HR consulting experience, Jivan highlights the pervasive stereotypes that affect both older and younger workers alike, emphasising the moral and economic implications of ageism. The discussion covers the alarming decline of older workers in the tech industry, the mental health...

Today, Jivan is joined by HR transformation experts Morgan Duffy and Yaa Kufuor, to discuss the critical topic of HR technology implementation. With a combined experience of over 30 years in the field, they consider the common misconceptions surrounding HR tech, emphasising that it is not merely about automation but also about strategic alignment and user experience. KEY TAKEAWAYS Implementing new...

In this episode, Jivan delves into the contentious return-to-office debate, exploring the underlying power dynamics and trust issues that shape modern workplace culture. Reflecting on the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Jivan highlights how remote work became a viable option for many, leading to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. KEY TAKEAWAYS The pandemic forced a r...

In this inspiring episode, Jivan speaks with Melissa Owusu-Ansah, a former professional athlete who successfully transitioned into the corporate world. Melissa shares her journey from the athletics track to the boardroom, discussing the challenges of shifting identity and the mental resilience required for such a transformation. She reflects on how her experiences in sports shaped her mindset and...

In this episode, Jivan presents a compelling open letter to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, critiquing the government's approach to change management and stakeholder engagement. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in HR transformation, Jivan highlights the pitfalls of recent policy decisions, such as the controversial winter fuel payment changes and welfare reforms, which lacked public consulta...

In today’s episode, Jivan delves into the complex topic of crying in the workplace, sparked by a recent incident involving UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves. Jivan explores the mixed reactions to Reeves' emotional display, questioning whether crying at work is a sign of weakness or strength. She argues that tears can signify emotional overwhelm, empathy, or frustration, and highlights the societal condi...

Today, Jivan sits down with Ameesha Green, founder and CEO of Bookshelf Limited, who shares her journey of leading with kindness in the workplace. Ameesha discusses her upbringing in a single-parent household and how her mother's resilience shaped her values-driven leadership style. They delve into the transformative power of empathy, clear boundaries, and a people-first culture, highlighting how...

Today, Jivan is analysing the very public feud between President Trump and Elon Musk as a case study in toxic masculinity and leadership. She explores how their performative conflict and lack of accountability negatively impact workplace culture, employee morale, and brand reputation. Jivan calls on leaders to reflect on the behaviours they reward and to foster healthier, more ethical workplace cu...

In this episode, Jivan is joined by HR consultant and transformation leader Diana Croitoru to discuss the critical shift from reactive to proactive HR practices. With nearly 30 years of experience, Diana shares her insights on how HR professionals can elevate their roles to become strategic business partners. She highlights the need for HR teams to align with business goals, streamline processes,...

In this episode, Jivan delves into the complex world of tariffs and their far-reaching impacts on businesses, HR practices, and everyday people. Through the lens of John Taylor, a third-generation owner of a UK manufacturing company, the episode explores how recent tariff spikes have affected costs, workforce morale, and local economies. Jivan also discusses the role of HR in navigating these chal...

In this episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Jeremy Campbell, CEO of Black Isle Group and creator of Nudge AI. They delve into the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on workplace dynamics, particularly in the realms of human resources (HR) and learning and development (L&D). Jeremy shares insights on how AI can enhance productivity, streamline HR proce...

Jivan explores the pressing issue of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) in cases of sexual misconduct and abuse, highlighting a significant movement in the UK to ban their use unless specifically requested by the victim. Dempsey discusses the implications of this proposed amendment to the Employment Rights Bill, emphasising the need for justice, accountability, and the empowerment of survivors. Thro...

In this episode, Jivan sits down with AI expert Steve Dorward, an enterprise architect and AI wrangler, to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the workplace. They look into the distinctions between AI and generative AI, discussing the risks and rewards associated with these technologies, particularly for HR leaders. Steve shares valuable insights on implementing AI resp...

In this episode, Jivan is joined by Lisa Quait, an esteemed coach for women executives, to explore the complex world of workplace dynamics and the unique challenges women face in their careers. Lisa shares insights into the transformative power of reframing thoughts, overcoming limiting beliefs, and the crucial role of a supportive network in pushing through these barriers to achieve career succes...

In this episode, Jivan explores the art of resilience and adaptability with Bobbie King, one of the founders of SQEPtech, a company specialising in HR and people management technology. From her roots in communist Romania to breaking down barriers as a leading figure in the male-dominated tech sector in the UK, Bobbie’s story is a testament to perseverance and innovation. Bobbi shares her insights...

In this episode, Jivan is joined by Paul Smith, the CIO of Amnesty International UK, and Jack Jarrett, a resourcing advisor from the same organisation, as they explain how artificial intelligence is revolutionising the nonprofit sector, particularly in human rights. Their insights paint a vivid picture of the delicate balance required between leveraging AI's transformative power and addressing the...