HR Hacks & Halos

In this episode, Jivan is joined by Mohammad Yasin MP to discuss the increased hostility faced by politicians, the need for better support systems for MPs,  the importance of listening to diverse voices across communities, and the delicate balance between party loyalty and representing constituents' best interests. After more than a decade as a councillor, Mohammad was elected as MP for Bedford an...

In this episode, Jivan is joined by Alison Dunn, a prominent social activist and leader of the Society Matters Group which incorporates Citizens Advice Gateshead, to explore the North/South inequality that exists in the UK and the potential impact of devolution.  Alison’s journey with Citizens Advice Gateshead began in 2007 when she joined as Service Delivery Manager. By 2012, she was appointed Ch...

In this insightful episode, Jivan chats to Alison Abu-Sonubi, an accomplished HR professional with extensive experience in recruitment, performance management, and policy development. They discuss cultural shifts in professional environments, often labeled as "woke," and their impact on organisational policies, insights into job satisfaction in HR roles and potential career pathways for HR profess...

In this episode, Jivan chats to Nick James, founder and CEO of Expert Empires about the importance of mindset, emotional intelligence, and resilience in business leadership. They discuss Nick’s journey from being influenced by Tony Robbins at just 12 years old to becoming a successful entrepreneur who has built, grown and scaled four businesses from zero to seven figures in annual revenue. Nick sh...

In today's episode, Jivan sits down with Kevin Antao, a former CIO at Amnesty International and now a freelance consultant in the not-for-profit sector. They discuss the challenges charities face in leveraging technology and data, the innovative role of a digital trustee, and the importance of organizational culture in driving change. Kevin shares his insights on the impact of AI, the necessity fo...

In this episode, Jivan sits down with Mervyn Dinnen, a leading analyst and researcher in HR technology and talent trends. Together, they explore Mervyn's predictions for 2025 and the evolving landscape of HR. They delve into the impact of AI on employee engagement, the ongoing debate around flexible and remote working, and the importance of well-being in the workplace. Mervyn shares insights from...

In this festive episode of "HR Hacks and Halos," Jivan welcomes her longtime friend Seema Grantham, to discuss her role at BHETA, a trade association for home and garden wares and small domestic appliances. The conversation is filled with light-hearted banter as they reminisce about their 40-year friendship, share holiday plans, and reflect on Seema's recent adventures, including a memorable trip...

In this episode, Jivan delves into the intricacies of resignations, emphasising the importance of HOW to leave a job, especially in high-stakes industries like life sciences and healthcare. Drawing on recent high-profile resignations, such as those of Rosie Duffield and Louise Haig, Jivan contrasts the impact of emotional versus professional exits. She discusses the potential long-term consequence...

In this episode, Jivan is flying solo, diving into the critical topic of Diversity, Equality, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) within the workplace. Drawing from years of experience in life sciences, healthcare, and pharma, Jivan emphasises the importance of creating environments where all employees feel valued and heard. She discusses the financial and cultural benefits of strong DEIB initiatives,...

In this episode, Jivan welcomes performance coach Mark Dinardo, who shares his transformative journey from a secure career in the IT industry to managing his own health and wellness clinic. Mark discusses the toxic workplace dynamics he experienced, including the challenges of advocating for his team's well-being amidst rigid performance metrics and calibration processes. He reflects on the person...

In this episode Jivan welcomes Jeanette Linfoot, a former corporate CEO turned entrepreneur and mentor, to discuss her extensive career and insights on leadership, workplace culture, and the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in business. Jeanette shares her journey from the corporate world, where she held high-level positions in the travel and hospitality sectors, to her curre...

In this episode, Jivan Dempsey interviews Christina Robinson, the CEO of Green Umbrella Marketing, who shares her inspiring journey from the hospitality industry to becoming a successful business owner. Christina discusses the importance of values in business leadership and how she fosters a thriving company culture by understanding and aligning with her team's strengths and aspirations. Christina...

In this episode, Jivan welcomes life coach and author Angela Allan-Burns, also known as Ang, to discuss the profound challenges of navigating divorce and its impact on the workplace. Ang shares her personal experiences of a lengthy divorce process and emphasizes the emotional toll it can take on productivity and mental health. Through her podcast, "Do I Really Hate Men?", she aims to support indiv...

In this episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with leadership advisor Olga Vtorushina and Dorrit Kromans board professional about their upcoming book, "Board Dynamics," set to be published in the first quarter of 2025. The discussion delves into the often misunderstood role of boards within organisations, highlighting their overarching responsibilities, the importance of diver...

In this episode, Jivan welcomes Feng Shui therapist Cathi Hargarden to discuss the transformative power of Feng Shui in the workplace. Cathi shares her extensive experience of over 30 years in the field, addressing common scepticism surrounding Feng Shui and emphasizing its potential to create more welcoming and productive environments. They both explore how the energy of a space can influence hea...

In this episode, Jivan welcomes entrepreneur and mentor Gary Das, who shares his extensive journey in the financial services industry. Gary reflects on his early experiences as a business owner, discussing the mistakes he made and the lessons learned that shaped his management style. He emphasizes the importance of creating a culture where team members feel empowered to take ownership of their rol...

In this episode, Jivan delves into the detrimental effects of micromanagement on company culture and employee well-being. She outlines the common behaviours of micromanaging bosses, such as constantly seeking updates, failing to delegate, and taking credit for team successes while deflecting blame for failures. Jivan emphasises the importance of trust, autonomy, and constructive feedback in foster...

In this episode, Jivan welcomes psychotherapist Wendy Castelino to discuss the critical topic of managing mental health in the workplace. They explore the detrimental effects of toxic work cultures on employee well-being. Wendy shares four compelling examples from her practice, including the challenges faced by employees after workplace accidents, incidents of violence, inflexible working hours fo...

Jivan explores the controversial actions of Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, discussing whether his recent decision to suspend seven MPs for voting against the party line constitutes workplace bullying or a necessary display of leadership. Dempsey discusses the political dynamics at play, including the historical tensions between Starmer and the left-wing faction of the party, as well as the implic...

In this very first episode of HR Hacks and Halos, Jivan Dempsey delves into the critical issue of toxic workplace cultures and the detrimental effects they have on employees and organizations alike. With over 20 years of experience in HR, Jivan shares a personal story of overcoming a harrowing experience with a bullying boss, highlighting the importance of speaking out against bad behaviours in th...

In this episode, Jivan sits down with Jacqueline Cripps, author of "Managing Millennials." They discuss the unique values and expectations of millennials in the workplace, exploring why this generation is often misunderstood and maligned. Jacqueline shares insights from her decade-long experience in workforce management, emphasizing the importance of understanding millennials' needs for flexibilit...

Today, Jivan welcomes guest Chloe Bisson, a serial entrepreneur and book publisher, to discuss the critical topic of employee mindset in the face of toxic workplaces. With alarming statistics highlighting the impact of workplace toxicity on productivity and mental health, Chloe shares her personal journey from a successful corporate career to overcoming severe clinical depression. She emphasizes t...

Today, Jivan welcomes Emma Jane Taylor, a serial entrepreneur, radio broadcaster, author, and passionate campaigner for child protection through her charity Project 9010 and the Not My Shame movement. They delve into the critical issue of child sexual abuse, discussing the importance of open conversations and education to empower children and prevent future abuse. Emma Jane shares her personal jou...

In today's episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with leadership coach and educator Penny de Valk about the critical role of leadership in shaping company culture. They explore the dynamics between male and female leadership styles, the importance of trust and psychological safety in the workplace, and the shared responsibility of both leaders and employees in fostering a posi...

In this episode, Jivan engages in a thought-provoking discussion with social media marketing expert Kieran Kevan about the complexities surrounding diversity, equality, and inclusivity (DEI) initiatives in the workplace. They explore whether these initiatives inadvertently discriminate against men, particularly white men, and how this sentiment may contribute to a more toxic work culture. KEY TAKE...