HR Voices Podcast

Episode 55: HR Voices with Linda Gent — From Limiting Beliefs to Building Confidence

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi. 
DATE: 4th August 2025
Episode 55: HR Voices with Linda Gent — From Limiting Beliefs to Building Confidence
Guest: Linda Gent, Executive Coach & HR Professional
🎙️ In this episode:
Mary Asante is joined by the brilliant Linda Gent, executive coach and seasoned HR professional, to explore the inner voice that holds many of us back—limiting beliefs—and how to transform them into the confidence we need to thrive.
Linda shares how these beliefs take root, from childhood memories to difficult work experiences, and how they often evolve into what we know as imposter syndrome. Through powerful coaching insights, practical techniques, and real-life stories, Linda shows how HR professionals and business leaders can start dismantling these beliefs and begin showing up more powerfully.
🧠 What You’ll Learn:
🔎 What Are Limiting Beliefs?
The connection between limiting beliefs and imposter syndrome
Common signs of self-sabotaging internal dialogue
Why confidence is often a skill—not a trait
📚 Where They Come From
Early experiences, workplace trauma, and ingrained messaging
Why some beliefs become part of your persona
The role of fear, shame, and internalised criticism
🔁 How to Start Rebuilding Confidence
Coaching techniques that challenge limiting narratives
Tools like journaling, reframing, and reflective cycles
Using positive psychology (PERMA) and strength-based approaches
🧍 Why It’s Not About Perfection
Breaking the myth that you must “know it all” to be credible
Recognising the “archetypes” of imposter syndrome: the perfectionist, the expert, the superhuman
How overcompensation can lead to burnout
💬 Being Vulnerable, Being Human
The power of authentic leadership
How hybrid working has shifted perceptions of professionalism
Why showing vulnerability can build team trust
✨ Key Takeaways:
✅ Your internal voice has the power to shape—or shatter—your confidence ✅ Confidence can be developed with tools like reflection and reframing ✅ It’s okay not to have all the answers—leadership is a team sport ✅ Self-awareness helps you break the cycle of fear-based thinking ✅ Vulnerability, empathy, and connection can boost both wellbeing and performance
🔝 Top Tips from Linda Gent:
Reflect – Use journaling, self-inquiry, or post-it exercises to explore the beliefs shaping your decisions.
Reframe – Add the word “yet” to your inner dialogue. “I can’t do this…yet” changes everything.
Rejoice – Acknowledge your wins. Celebrate the small stuff. Confidence grows when you recognise progress.
🎧 Listen & Engage Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network.
📩 Have feedback or a topic suggestion? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 More episodes and resources: www.hrindependents.co.uk
 

Episode 54: Redefining Visibility: Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi. 
DATE: 21st July 2025
Episode 54:  HR Voices with Pippa Tanko — Redefining Visibility: Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image
Guest: Pippa Tanko, Brand Photographer & Visibility Coach
In this episode:
Mary Asante is joined by the inspiring Pippa Tanko, a brand photographer and visibility coach who helps entrepreneurs show up as their true selves online to attract the right clients. Together, they dive into what visibility really means—and why your story holds more power than your polished image.
This conversation explores how authenticity (in its rawest, most real form) is not just a buzzword but a business strategy. Pippa shares her journey, insights, and powerful advice for HR consultants who want to build trust, stand out online, and connect meaningfully with their audience.
🎙️ What You’ll Learn:
🧭 Why Your Story Matters More Than Your Image
How authenticity builds trust
Why your lived experiences are more powerful than polished trends
Storytelling as a visibility tool and business strategy
🧠 Overcoming Visibility Fears
Using fear as a compass to guide your next move
The mindset shift: making visibility about your audience, not you
The balance between vulnerability and privacy
📸 Strategic Visibility for Business Growth
Building the “know, like, and trust” factor online
Showing up consistently without burning out
How to repurpose content meaningfully and sustainably
🫶 Why Being Human is Your Superpower
The power of relatability in building your brand
Visibility for those juggling business and life (e.g. carers, parents)
Real life vs. curated perfection—and why honesty wins
✨ Key Takeaways:
✅ Visibility is about connection, not performance ✅ People relate to your story, not your perfection ✅ You attract the right clients by showing who you really are ✅ Your voice and story are part of your business’s most valuable assets ✅ There’s power – and profit – in showing up as your whole self
🔝 Top Tips from Pippa Tanko:
Use fear as a compass – What scares you might be exactly what moves the needle in your business.
Have an opinion – Sharing your perspective sets you apart and builds credibility.
Practice visibility – Start small. Get on camera. Try video or share a personal post. You don’t have to be perfect—just present.
🎧 Listen & Engage Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with your HR network.
📩 Want to be a guest or suggest a topic? Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 More episodes & insights: www.hrindependents.co.uk
 

Episode 53: How Psychometrics Can Support People & Organisations

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents, HRi. 
DATE: 7th July 2025
Episode: HR Voices with Katy McMinn — How Psychometrics Can Support People & Organisations 
Guest: Katy McMinn, Task HR
In this insightful episode, host Mary Asante speaks with the fabulous Katy McMinn, founder of Task HR, to explore how psychometric assessments can support individuals, teams, and organisations. Katy shares practical insights for HR consultants and businesses looking to apply psychometric tools effectively.
In This Episode:
🔢 Understanding Psychometrics
What psychometric assessments are and what they measure.
Their wide application across recruitment, development, team dynamics, leadership, and organisational restructuring.
The importance of selecting the right tool for the right purpose.
🔍 How Businesses Use Psychometrics
Integrating psychometrics into recruitment for better hiring decisions.
Using psychometrics for leadership and personal development.
Team dynamics: improving collaboration and breaking down barriers.
🧬 Choosing the Right Tools & Accreditation
Popular tools: DISC, MBTI, Golden, True Colors, Emotional Capital, EBW.
Why accreditation and proper training are crucial.
The danger of misinterpretation and pigeonholing without expert guidance.
🔑 The Role of HR Consultants
How HR consultants can add psychometrics into their service offerings.
Collaboration opportunities with other accredited consultants.
Using psychometrics to enhance coaching and leadership programs.
🫰 Individual, Team, and Organisational Benefits
Self-awareness and personal growth.
Enhancing team communication and dynamics.
Supporting organisational culture, talent management, and business success.
🔢 Key Takeaways
Psychometrics are a valuable tool when applied correctly, not in isolation.
Self-awareness is at the heart of personal and team development.
Accreditation is essential for ethical and effective use.
Collaboration with other consultants expands your offering.
Be mindful of neurodiversity when applying psychometric tools.
🔟 Top Tips from Katy McMinn
Don’t pigeonhole people — use psychometrics to explore, not to label.
Always combine psychometric results with wider assessment tools.
Consider neurodiversity and adapt assessments accordingly.
🎧 Listen & Engage If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your HR network.
Have feedback or want to be a guest? 
📧 Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 
🌐 More insights at: www.hrindependents.co.uk
 
 
 

Episode 52: Conversations That Move HR Forward: Highlights from Episodes 47–51

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Episode 52
Title: Conversations That Move HR Forward: Highlights from Episodes 47–51 Host: Mary Asante | HR Independents Ltd Release Date: 23 June 2025
In this special recap edition of the HR Voices Podcast, host Mary Asante reflects on the standout insights, frameworks, and tools shared over the past five episodes. From navigating difficult conversations to smart marketing, ethical investigations, outplacement support, and scaling your business with virtual assistants—this recap brings together the best of recent guest wisdom to help you grow your HR practice with clarity and purpose.
Whether you're a long-time listener or just joining us, this episode is your quick-start guide to some of the most valuable conversations we've hosted this season.
🔍 Episode Highlights:
🎤 Ep. 47 – Facilitating Difficult Conversations with Sarah Harvey Discover the STREET CREDS framework and learn how to balance candour and sensitivity. Psychological safety, timing, and emotional intelligence are key to getting tough conversations right.
🎤 Ep. 48 – Marketing Beyond Referrals with James Lyon James challenges HR consultants to stop relying on referrals and embrace strategic, repeatable marketing systems. Get practical tips on using LinkedIn, email, websites, and automation to grow visibility and stability.
🎤 Ep. 49 – Investigations and the PEACE Model with Kate Marston Explore the PEACE model for evidence-based investigations. Learn the importance of planning, impartiality, and clear terms of reference to conduct fair and legally sound investigations.
🎤 Ep. 50 – Outplacement Support with June Hogan Redundancy doesn't have to mean disengagement. June shares how outplacement services can protect morale, support leavers compassionately, and maintain your employer brand.
🎤 Ep. 51 – How Virtual Assistants Help HR Consultants Scale and Succeed with Kelly Matcham Kelly explains how virtual assistants can be your “25th hour in the day,” helping HR consultants outsource admin, marketing, and more—so you can focus on the work that matters.
🧠 Key Themes Across Episodes:
✅ Structure supports success – Frameworks like STREET CREDS and PEACE give you tools to handle complexity.
✅ Marketing is risk management – Consistency builds trust and pipeline stability.
✅ Delegation is strategic – From VAs to outplacement, smart support enables growth.
✅ Compassion is not optional – Whether navigating redundancies or hard conversations, how you show up matters.
🎧 Listen & Engage
Catch up on any episodes you missed—or revisit your favourites for another dose of inspiration.
💬 We’d love to hear from you! Got feedback, questions, or a guest recommendation? 📩 Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk 🌐 Visit: www.hrindependents.co.uk
📌 Don’t forget to subscribe, review, and share the podcast with fellow HR professionals.
Thank you for being part of the HR Voices community!
 

Episode 51: How a Virtual Assistant Can Help HR Consultants Grow Their Business

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.
DATE: 9 June 2025
Episode 51: HR Voices with Kelly Matcham – How a Virtual Assistant Can Help HR Consultants Grow Their Business
Guest: Kelly Matcham, Pink Spaghetti Mole Valley & Dorking
In this episode, Mary Asante is joined by Kelly Matcham, a virtual assistant from Pink Spaghetti Mole Valley & Dorking. Kelly shares insights on how working with a VA can help HR consultants and independent professionals streamline their operations, free up time, and ultimately grow their business.
What to Expect in This Episode
💼 What Is a Virtual Assistant (VA)?• Understanding what a VA does and why “virtual assistant” can be a misleading term.• How VAs act as the 25th hour in the day for busy business owners.
🔍 Identifying the Right Tasks to Delegate• How to identify the tasks that don’t suit your skillset or consume too much time.• Starting small and scaling support as needed.
🧰 Common Tasks Delegated to VAs• Inbox and diary management.• Onboarding clients, recruitment support, CRM and process support.• Social media and marketing assistance.• Event and project coordination.
🧠 Choosing the Right VA for Your Business• Importance of rapport and relationship building.• How to vet potential VAs based on your business needs.• Consideration of their background, team structure, and ability to scale.
🗣️ Communication and Onboarding• Best practices for communicating and sharing access with your VA.• Tools and platforms to streamline collaboration.• The importance of onboarding both ways and setting clear expectations.
📈 Growing Together• How VAs can help identify business blind spots.• Using the VA’s broader experience across industries to your advantage.
✅ Key Takeaways
VAs are a flexible and scalable way to reduce admin burden.• Build trust and start small—then scale as confidence and needs grow.• Communication, clarity, and realistic expectations are essential to success.• VAs can become an extension of your team and help drive business growth.
📣 Top Tips from Kelly Matcham
Start by listing tasks you dislike or repeat frequently.2. Talk to several VAs to find the right fit for your needs and values.3. Start small with a few hours a week and grow the relationship gradually.🎧 Listen & Engage
If you found this episode helpful, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow HR professionals. Got a topic or want to be a guest? Get in touch at: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk
For more resources, visit www.hrindependents.co.uk plus take a look at this BLOG for more information. 

Episode 50: Outplacement Support

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.
DATE: 26 May 2025
Episode 50: Outplacement Support  
Guest: June Hogan, Wildwood Coaching
In this heartfelt and highly practical episode, host Mary Asante is joined by June Hogan, founder of Wildwood Coaching and a seasoned outplacement specialist. Drawing on her rich HR background and personal experience with redundancy, June shares why outplacement support matters now more than ever—and how HR professionals can integrate it into their practices compassionately and effectively.
What to Expect in This Episode
🔄 Understanding Outplacement
What outplacement is and what services it includes—from CV writing to emotional support.
When and how to implement outplacement in the redundancy process.
Why it’s an investment in both individuals and your organization.
💼 The Human Side of Redundancy
June shares her personal experiences with redundancy—and what she learned on both sides of the table.
How emotion, identity, and support play a role in employee transitions.
Why good offboarding impacts retention, morale, and future talent engagement.
🧰 Designing an Effective Outplacement Offer
Group vs. individual support — how to tailor your approach based on employee needs and budget.
How much outplacement costs and why it doesn’t need to break the bank.
Why communication, clarity, and choice are key to employee uptake.
Key Takeaways
Outplacement support can soften the impact of redundancy and guide people forward.
Consider it early and build it into your redundancy planning and budget.
Effective support should be empathetic, practical, and flexible.
The way you treat leavers affects the culture and morale of those who remain.
Personal experiences of redundancy can inform better HR practices.
Top Tips from June Hogan
Plan early – Involve outplacement in your initial redundancy planning.
Focus on people – Never lose sight of the individuals behind the roles.
See it as investment – It builds trust, resilience, and long-term reputation.
🎧 Listen & Engage
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network.Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or want to be a guest?📩 Email us at: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk🌐 Visit: www.hrindependents.co.uk for more insights and resources.

Episode 49: Investigations and the PEACE Model

A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.
DATE: 12 May 2025
Episode 49: Investigations and the PEACE Model
 
Guest: Kate Marston, MaST People Support
In this episode of HR Voices, host Mary Asante is joined by Kate Marston, founder of MaST People Support and former police detective. With a career that spans law enforcement and corporate investigations, Kate shares her expertise on how HR professionals can approach workplace investigations effectively using the PEACE model.
What to Expect in This Episode
 
Understanding Investigations in the Workplace
How investigations go beyond disciplinaries and grievances to support compliance, safety, and fairness.
Why collaboration between HR, legal, IT, and other departments is critical for effective outcomes.
The PEACE Model Explained
A breakdown of the PEACE acronym: Planning, Engage & Explain, Account, Closure, and Evaluation.
Why the model fosters non-confrontational, evidence-based interviews.
How it’s used across sectors to improve investigation quality.
Best Practice for Conducting Investigations
How to assess whether an investigation is necessary.
The importance of terms of reference, planning, and proportionality.
Managing stakeholders including HR, legal, and PR with transparency and care.
Keeping impartiality and record-keeping front and center.
Key Takeaways
 
Define clear terms of reference to guide scope and decisions.
Plan every investigation phase with care, especially interviews.
Use the PEACE model for ethical, effective interviews.
Be impartial, not just “independent”—let evidence guide your process.
Keep thorough records and evaluate your own performance for future improvement.
Top Tips from Kate Marston
 
Create strong terms of reference to anchor your investigation.
Take time to plan—not just the steps, but your interview strategy.
Follow evidence methodically and document your decisions.
Choose the right investigator—skills, training, and impartiality matter.
Reflect on every investigation to improve for the next one.
🎧 Listen & Engage
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your network.
Have a topic you'd like us to cover? Or want to be a guest?
📩 Email us at: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk
🌐 Visit: www.hrindependents.co.uk for more insights and resources
 

Episode 48: How to stop relying on referrals and start marketing your consultancy

HR Voices Podcast
A podcast for independent HR and people professionals, and the businesses they support.
Hosted by Mary Asante of HR Independents Ltd.
DATE: 28 April 2025
Episode 48: HR Voices with James Lyon – How to stop relying on referrals and start marketing your consultancy  
Guest: James Lyon, HR Marketing Box
In this insightful and high-energy episode, host Mary Asante is joined by the dynamic James Lyon, known as the world’s go-to HR marketing guy. Together, they explore a common challenge facing HR consultants: how to break free from relying solely on referrals and build a sustainable marketing strategy.
In This Episode
 
🚫 Why Referrals Alone Aren’t Enough
The hidden risks of relying solely on word-of-mouth.
How losing one client can severely impact income.
Why referrals are unpredictable and put your future out of your control.
🔁 Shifting the Mindset: From Hope to Strategy
Marketing as a form of risk management—not just growth.
The danger of “hope marketing” and its role in the boom-and-bust cycle.
How proactive marketing protects income and improves stability.
🌱 The Power of Brand Awareness
Farmer vs. hunter marketing explained.
Becoming the “go-to” HR consultant in your niche.
Effective channels: LinkedIn, websites, emails, and more.
🛠️ Tools & Tips to Get Started
Build your brand through daily LinkedIn content—no Premium required.
Use the four key marketing channels: LinkedIn, website, email, and Google profile.
Automate outreach with tools like Meet Alfred to grow your network.
Key Takeaways
Brand awareness is essential for consistent client flow.
Marketing mitigates risk and builds business resilience.
Automation and content help maintain visibility and engagement.
Value-based pricing using the HR Service Pyramid unlocks scale.
A marketing system beats guesswork—you don’t have to be an expert.
Top Tips from James Lyon
Be consistent – Post regularly on LinkedIn to stay visible.
Focus your audience – Connect with potential clients, not just peers.
Build smart systems – The right setup saves time and secures leads.
Listen & Engage
Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share with fellow HR consultants.Want to get involved or suggest a topic?📩 Email: hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk🌐 More insights at: www.hrindependents.co.uk
 
 

Episode 47: How can HR consultants facilitate difficult conversations?

HR Voices Podcast
Episode 47: How can HR consultants facilitate difficult conversations? Why being savvy and demonstrating STREETCREDS is a gamechanger.
Hosted by: Mary Asante | HR Independents Ltd
Episode Overview:
In this engaging episode, host Mary Asante is joined by Sarah Harvey, founder of Savvy Conversations, leadership coach, trainer, facilitator, workplace mediator, and author. Sarah discusses practical insights on how HR consultants and business leaders can facilitate difficult workplace conversations effectively. She introduces her unique "STREET CREDS" framework and highlights the importance of psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and credibility when managing sensitive discussions.
What to Expect in This Episode:
🔹 The STREET CREDS Framework:
Understanding the dual components—'STREET' (conditions necessary for good conversations) and 'CREDS' (the practical steps to hold effective discussions).
Practical advice on being candid, respectful, engaging, directional, and sensitive.
🔹 Psychological Safety and Trust:
Techniques for creating an environment where difficult conversations can happen safely.
The role of credibility and trust in ensuring messages are received effectively.
🔹 Emotional Intelligence & Timing:
Strategies for identifying the right conversation, delivered in the right way, at the right time.
How emotional intelligence can influence outcomes positively.
🔹 Balancing Results and Relationships:
Tips for managing the "Savvy Seesaw"—balancing candidness and sensitivity to maintain relationships while achieving desired outcomes.
Key Takeaways: 
✅ Right conversation, right way, right time – Aligning these three elements is critical to effective dialogue. 
✅ STREET CREDS – A practical framework for structuring conversations and managing difficult discussions. 
✅ Psychological safety matters – Creating a safe space helps people engage authentically.
 ✅ Balance candidness and sensitivity – Honesty is effective only when paired with empathy and respect. 
✅ Continual learning – Mastering the art of conversation requires ongoing self-awareness and adaptability.
Looking Ahead: HR Voices continues to spotlight impactful conversations and essential HR topics. To suggest topics or become a guest, please contact us at HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk.
📌 Subscribe, share, and review to help spread the word!
🎙️ Listen Now: [Insert podcast link]
 
 

Episode 46: Conversations That Matter – From Legislation to Lived Experience in Today’s Workplaces

🎙️ HR Voices Podcast
Episode 46: Conversations That Matter – From Legislation to Lived Experience in Today’s Workplaces
Hosted by: Charlotte Allfrey & Mary Asante | HR Independents Ltd
📅 Release Date: 31st March 2025
🔍 Episode Overview:
In this reflective roundup episode, Charlotte and Mary revisit key highlights from Episodes 39 to 45 of the HR Voices podcast. They cover everything from game-changing employment law to difficult yet vital conversations around retirement, neurodiversity, and domestic abuse. Whether you’re an HR consultant, small business leader, or simply passionate about people at work — this episode is a goldmine of insight, inspiration and action.
🎧 What You’ll Learn:
⚖️ 1. Employment Law Updates with Amanda Trewhella (Ep. 39)
Major changes coming in 2025: Day-one unfair dismissal rights, new flexible working rules, and third-party harassment responsibilities.
What businesses must do now to prepare.
📊 2. Strategic Planning with Colin Hall (Ep. 40)
Why every business—large or small—needs a plan (even if it changes!).
How tools like SWOT and PESTLE can help you adapt to change.
💙 3. Blue Monday & Mental Health in the Workplace (Ep. 41)
Unpacking the reality behind Blue Monday and January burnout.
Mental health tips and why psychological safety is more than a buzzword.
🤖 4. HR Trends for 2025 (Ep. 42)
How AI, wellbeing, and DEI are shaping the future of HR.
Why upskilling, reskilling, and employee listening matter now more than ever.
👵 5. Retirement Conversations with Anne Cannings (Ep. 43)
Why it’s time to normalise conversations about retirement.
Planning financially, emotionally, and professionally—for both employees and independent consultants.
🧠 6. Neurodiversity in the Workplace with Zoe Carroll (Ep. 44)
How to move beyond compliance and build truly inclusive, neurodiversity-friendly environments.
Why equity > equality, and practical tips to get started.
🏠 7. Supporting Employees Facing Domestic Abuse with Emma Bray (Ep. 45)
The signs HR and line managers should look out for.
Why having the right policy and referral network could save someone’s life.
💡 Key Takeaways:
✅ Keep conversations human — laws and tech matter, but people are the heartbeat of HR. ✅ Proactive beats reactive — plan now for legal changes, cost-of-living impacts, and employee wellbeing. ✅ DEI is ongoing — not just an initiative but an everyday culture shift. ✅ Empower line managers — give them the tools and confidence to support their teams. ✅ Support is strategy — mental health, retirement, and domestic abuse all affect performance and retention.
🔗 Related Episodes to Catch Up On:
🎧 [Ep. 39 – Employment Law Roundup 2024 with Amanda Trewhella] 🎧 [Ep. 40 – Strategic Business Planning for 2025 with Colin Hall] 🎧 [Ep. 41 – Blue Monday and Mental Health in the Workplace] 🎧 [Ep. 42 – HR Trends for 2025] 🎧 [Ep. 43 – Retirement Planning with Anne Cannings] 🎧 [Ep. 44 – Making Workplaces More Neurodiversity Friendly with Zoe Carroll] 🎧 [Ep. 45 – Supporting Employees Facing Domestic Abuse with Emma Bray]
📬 Get Involved:
Got a story to tell or a challenge to share? We’d love to feature you or your idea on a future episode! 📩 Email: HRVoices@hrindependents.co.uk
🌟 Support the Podcast:
✅ Subscribe ✅ Share this episode with your HR and business network ✅ Leave us a quick ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review
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🔗 More insights: www.hrindependents.co.uk