HR Engage Podcast

Is the human resources industry facing a mass exodus, or is it on the brink of an AI revolution?In this full episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Sarah Stone, Co-Founder of linkABLE and ThriveABLE AI. With a rich corporate background working across major brands, Sarah brings a refreshingly honest and commercially driven perspective to the people and culture space.Sarah shares her incredible journey from stepping into management at just nineteen to becoming a leading voice in learning and development. This wide-ranging conversation tackles the biggest challenges facing HR professionals today. From the alarming trend of burnt-out teams acting as a dumping ground for unresolved conflicts, to the vital importance of articulating your financial value, Sarah explains why intentionality is your ultimate survival tool.Jonathan and Sarah also dive deep into artificial intelligence. Sarah breaks down how leaders must shift their mindset to successfully adopt AI—moving away from a scatter gun approach to a deliberate tech strategy—before they are left completely behind.In this episode, Jonathan and Sarah cover:The ROI of L&D: How to move learning and development from a fluffy afterthought to a deliberate business driver.Early Career Lessons: Sarah's honest reflections on becoming a manager at 19 and why leaders should always use the 24-hour rule.The HR Exodus: Unpacking why HR professionals are burning out and how business leaders avoiding hard conversations is the root cause.Selling Your Value: Why failing to articulate your commercial value makes HR teams vulnerable to redundancies.Deliberate AI Strategy: How to stop dabbling with ChatGPT and start building an AI framework that delivers real financial returns.Rapid-Fire Fun: We get to know Sarah outside of work, touching on Reformer Pilates, terrible driving, and the Maldives.If you are ready to step out of transactional tasks and start leading with an intentional strategy, you will not want to miss this masterclass.Need practical, jargon-free employment law advice? Reach out to the team today (and mention the podcast for a listener discount!): 🔗 South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: southgeldard.com.au 💬 We want to hear from you! What was your biggest takeaway from Jonathan and Sarah's conversation on the future of HR and AI? Reach out and let us know.🔔 Subscribe to the HR Engage Podcast so you never miss an episode—where real HR leaders share real stories.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Trudi Liekefett, Manager of People & Capability at Isaac Regional Council, joins Jonathan Mamaril for one of the most honest, wide-ranging, and deeply personal conversations we've had on the HR Engage Podcast.Trudi's journey into HR was anything but planned. From studying law, to journalism, to completing an MBA — she fell into HR by accident while her husband was deployed to Afghanistan. What followed was a career built on variety, resilience, and the courage to keep saying yes — even when it meant starting over.From her start at Rio Tinto's coal mines in regional Queensland, through a breast cancer diagnosis at 30, to stepping back into a more junior role to eventually lead the People & Capability function at Isaac Regional Council — Trudi's story is a masterclass in backing yourself.In this episode, we cover:Why regional Australia is one of the most underrated career launchpads for HR professionalsBeing diagnosed with aggressive breast cancer at 30 — and the workplace support that changed everythingWhy taking a step back in your career is sometimes the smartest move you'll ever makeThe case for generalist experience over specialisation — especially early in your HR careerWhy burnout in HR is real — and the practical habits that actually helpWhy manager capability is the single biggest challenge facing organisations right nowA controversial take — why HR and unions are actually working toward the same goalThe evolution of HR from "protect the company" to strategic partner and wellbeing champion"Sometimes you need to do less to be more." — the quote that recently changed Trudi's lifeThe power of mentorship and Women in Leadership programs at any stage of your careerRapid fire: Ocean's Eight, Mexico, a Las Vegas timeshare, and being a hardcore dance mumWhether you're just starting out in HR, navigating burnout, or wondering if the variety in your career is an asset or a liability — this episode will leave you motivated, grounded, and ready to back yourself.South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: https://southgeldard.com.au/Subscribe so you never miss an episode of the HR Engage Podcast — where real HR leaders share real stories.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

What does a classical vocalist turned HR leader have to teach us about people, culture, and business? More than you'd think. 🎶➡️💼In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Chantelle Williams — Head of People & Culture at LSKD, Australia's fast-growing athleisure brand — for one of the most refreshing and real conversations we've had on the podcast.Chantelle's journey is anything but conventional. From music teacher to facilitator, L&D specialist to global HR leader — she's built a career by saying yes first and figuring it out after. And she's bringing that same bold energy to one of Australia's most exciting workplaces.In this episode, we cover:🎯 How Chantelle went from classical vocalist to Head of People & Culture💡 Why HR must think commercially — not just culturally🚀 The real challenges of scaling culture during hyper-growth🧠 Mindset vs. generational differences in leadership📋 Why more policies ≠ fewer problems📚 Must-read book recommendations for HR and people leadersWhether you're just starting out in HR or you've got decades under your belt, Chantelle's insights on authentic leadership, people strategy, and building culture at scale will leave you thinking differently about the work you do.🔗 South Geldard Lawyers — HR & Employment Law Support: southgeldard.com.au💬 What's your biggest HR challenge right now? Drop it in the comments — we'd love to hear from you!🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode of the HR Engage Podcast — where real HR leaders share real stories.#HREngagePodcast #HumanResources #PeopleAndCulture #HRLeadership #workplacecultureProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

What happens when an astrophysicist trades the cosmos for corporate leadership — and discovers the real science is in managing people? 🔬➡️👥 In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Jay Ramanah — physicist turned CEO, oil & gas superintendent, banking executive, and founder of MaxStaff.co — for a raw and unfiltered conversation about why HR needs a radical shake-up. Jay shares his unconventional career journey from research physics to the frontlines of people management across industries like banking (Barclays), oil & gas, education, and consulting. He breaks down the 3 biggest challenges facing HR right now — skills shortages, AI disruption, and evolving workplace legislation — and delivers bold advice that some HR professionals might find controversial.The HR Engage Podcast is by HR people, for HR people. If you're in HR, people & culture, talent management, or business leadership — this episode is a must-listen. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode, host Jonathan Mamaril puts Leanne Lazarus—Queensland’s most sought-after HR recruitment specialist—in the hot seat for a conversation every HR professional needs to hear. Leanne reveals: • What the HR job market really looks like right now 📊 • The #1 mistake candidates make without realising it ❌ • Why she asks every client one simple question: 👉 “Is it a chair or a stool?” Their answer tells her everything about whether HR is truly valued in that organisation.  🔑 You’ll learn: → Why value alignment matters more than salary 💡 → The career advice early HR professionals learn too late ⏳ → How AI is reshaping recruitment (and what stays human) 🤖❤️ → Which roles are in highest demand right now 🔥 → How to know if an organisation truly values HR 🪑  Whether you’re: • An HR leader building your team • An early-career professional planning your next move • Or somewhere in between 👉 This one’s for you.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

She didn't choose HR — HR chose her. And it took 7 years, 11 schools, a construction site, and a whole lot of "I don't have all the answers" to get there. In this raw and refreshingly honest conversation, Chief People Officer Melitta McDonald pulls back the curtain on what it ACTUALLY takes to build a thriving HR career — no sugarcoating, no corporate jargon, just real talk from someone who's been in the trenches (literally, on construction sites) and earned her seat at the executive table. If you've ever felt like an imposter, wondered whether you're "qualified enough," or struggled to get leadership to take HR seriously... this episode is your permission slip to do things differently.  🔥 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: The Unconventional Path That Works Melitta shares why working full-time while completing her degree over 7 years gave her an edge that fast-track graduates often miss. She breaks down the real-world benefits of learning HR "in the trenches" — handling contracts, policies, and difficult conversations WHILE studying the theory behind them. The #1 Skill Every HR Professional Needs (It's Not What You Think) Forget policies and procedures. Melitta reveals that LISTENING — truly listening for what makes each person tick — is the foundational skill that transformed her career. She shares practical advice on how to develop this skill and why it matters more than knowing all the textbook answers. How to Earn Respect in Male-Dominated Industries From corporate finance to construction to FMCG manufacturing, Melitta has navigated industries where HR was often seen as "the fun police." She shares exactly how she changed that perception, built credibility with skeptical teams, and grew female representation from near-zero to 41% in one organization. Getting HR a Seat at the Leadership Table Tired of being seen as a "cost centre"? Melita reveals her strategy for becoming a true business partner — including how to speak the language of your ELT, present data that resonates, and build the trust that gets you invited into strategic conversations. The Truth About Culture (That Most Managers Won't Like) Here's a controversial take: Culture is NOT HR's sole responsibility. Melitta makes the case for why every department — Finance, Operations, Sales — should have "and Culture" in their title, and how to get buy-in from leaders who think culture is just about Christmas parties and team lunches. Managing a Multi-Generational, Multicultural Workforce With 48% of her workforce on visas and employees spanning FIVE generations, Melitta shares the retention and engagement strategies that actually work in today's complex workplace environment.🎯 WHO IS THIS EPISODE FOR? ✅ HR professionals feeling like they need "more qualifications" to succeed ✅ Early-career HR practitioners looking for real-world guidance ✅ HR generalists who love the breadth of the profession ✅ Anyone struggling to get HR taken seriously by leadership ✅ People leaders in male-dominated or blue-collar industries ✅ HR managers dealing with multi-generational workforce challenges ✅ Anyone who's ever felt like an imposter in their careerProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

How do you tell 320 people their jobs are gone—and have them THANK you for it? 🤯In this powerful episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with veteran HR generalist Simon Lever, whose career spans aviation, construction, healthcare, government, and international projects. Simon shares raw, real-world lessons from 25+ years navigating the toughest moments in human resources.From standing in front of hundreds during the GFC to navigating AI's disruption in recruitment, Simon reveals the one skill that separates good HR professionals from great ones: genuine empathy combined with strategic communication.🔑 What You'll Learn:• Why being a generalist (not a specialist) can be your biggest career advantage• The exact communication framework Simon used during mass layoffs that earned him respect instead of resentment• How AI is reshaping HR and recruitment—and what it CAN'T replace• Building a powerful professional network you can rely on in crisis moments• Managing HR timelines: why delays can destroy your case• The mindset shift that transforms difficult conversations💡 Simon's Key Quote: "People just don't know what they don't know."Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

What does it take to build a thriving HR career from the ground up—and lead a team of 18 through organizational chaos? Rae Headey's journey to General Manager of People & Development at Carers Queensland wasn't linear—and that's exactly what makes her story so powerful. From beauty therapist to yacht stewardess to HR executive, Rae shares the unconventional path that shaped her leadership philosophy and the game-changing lessons every HR professional needs to hear. In this episode, discover: ✅ How to navigate large-scale mergers & acquisitions (1,500 to 10,000 employees!) without losing your team ✅ The #1 communication strategy that reduces anxiety during organizational change ✅ Why resilience is THE most critical capability for HR success ✅ How to build an HR department from scratch when you're "really green" ✅ The mentorship secret that accelerated Ray's career trajectory ✅ Why performance management should never be taken personally (and how to master it) Rae reveals her non-negotiables for hiring HR team members, the importance of having a "seat at the table," and why positivity isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a leadership superpower. Plus, hear about her fascinating pre-HR life working in the Bahamas and how variety became her career compass! Perfect for: HR Managers, People & Culture Leaders, HR Advisors, Organizational Development professionals, and anyone navigating change management in large organizations.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage podcast, Jonathan Mamaril talks with Holly McBride, a powerhouse HR leader who went from retail management in Birmingham, UK to leading People & Culture at Fraser Coast Council in Australia. This conversation is PACKED with actionable insights that will change how you approach both your career and personal growth! In this game-changing episode, discover: ✅ How Holly conquered her fear of public speaking (and her advice for YOU) ✅ The Gallup Strengths framework that revolutionized her entire approach to work AND life ✅ Why "letting them" theory is the self-care strategy every HR professional needs ✅ Real strategies for building agile workforces in traditional organizations ✅ The shocking truth about why HR doesn't always need to be "the expert"Whether you're an early-career HR professional looking for guidance or a seasoned leader seeking fresh perspectives, Holly's authentic approach to employee experience design, change management, and personal development will inspire you to elevate your game. 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAY: "There'll be a time where you wish you were here" - Don't miss this powerful reminder about presence and gratitude in both career and life.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this milestone 20th episode, host Jonathan Mamrell welcomes a true pioneer in business and purpose—Paul Dunn. Paul was one of Hewlett Packard’s first ten employees in Australia, went on to become a globally recognised speaker who has reached more than 236,000 people, and is the co-founder of B1G1, the groundbreaking giving initiative that has already created over 374 million impacts worldwide. This power-packed conversation dives deep into the future of work and employee engagement, exploring: 🔹 The Gallup study showing only 26% of employees are truly engaged—and what leaders can do about it 🔹 How to transform engagement by linking work to measurable social impact 🔹 Why “fostering humanity flourishing” may be the ultimate business purpose 🔹 The famous boat analogy that will change the way you view your workforce 🔹 How AI and technology are reshaping HR and what’s really coming next 🔹 Real-world success stories, from Anytime Fitness gyms to law firms, redefining workplace culture 🔹 Paul’s unique insights from mentoring Daniel Priestley and even working alongside Steve Jobs Whether you’re in HR, leadership, or simply passionate about creating meaningful workplaces, this episode delivers actionable insights on bridging purpose with measurable impact in a rapidly changing world.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Is AI about to revolutionise HR forever? 🤖 This conversation will change how you think about the future of Human Resources! In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Josh Campbell, an 18-year HR veteran who's gone from safety compliance to leading HR at a cutting-edge EV charging technology company. Josh shares his controversial take: AI won't replace HR professionals - but those who don't embrace it will be left behind. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Why storytelling is the #1 skill every HR professional needs (and AI can't replicate)🔹 How Josh automated his entire birthday reminder system in just 1 hour using ChatGPT 🔹 The dangerous trap of AI-generated employment law advice (and why it's creating chaos) 🔹 Why "getting a seat at the table" requires more than just wearing an HR badge 🔹 The surprising connection between behavioral safety and modern HR practices Josh reveals how he's achieved more in 4 months with AI than in the previous 10 years of his career - while warning about the critical human elements that technology can never replace. From retail to hospitality to high-tech, his journey proves that embracing change while maintaining human connection is the ultimate HR superpower. Whether you're an HR Manager looking to level up or a seasoned professional navigating technological disruption, this episode delivers actionable insights on thriving in the AI era while keeping the "human" in Human Resources. 👉 Subscribe for more HR insights! Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

What happens when you combine a degree in HR, 500 earthworms, and the courage to ask for what you want? You get one of the most inspiring HR transformation stories we've ever shared on the HR Engage Podcast! Join host Jonathan Mamaril as he sits down with Candice, a powerhouse HR leader whose journey from Johannesburg to Brisbane includes building a consulting empire within RSM, managing global teams across impossible time zones, and somehow finding time to become a silversmith (yes, really!). 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYS: The "Side Quest" Strategy - How asking one bold question launched a dual career pathAI Revolution in HR - Why the people choosing your tech matter more than the tech itselfThe 4am Meeting Reality - Surviving (and thriving) with global teamsBreaking the "Perfect Professional" Myth - Why humor might be your secret weapon💡 GAME-CHANGING INSIGHTS: ✅ How to pitch your career expansion to decision-makers ✅ The critical skill every HR professional is missing (hint: it's not tech) ✅ Working with "no" - the negotiation technique from FBI tactics ✅ Why corporate governance knowledge changes everything BONUS: Discover the book that transformed how Candice approaches every negotiation (spoiler: it involves hostages). 📚 BOOKS MENTIONED: "Never Split the Difference" - Chris Voss"Sapiens" & "Homo Deus" - Yuval Noah HarariMalcolm Gladwell's collectionProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

From Psychology Graduate to Global HR Expert: The Unconventional Career Journey That Led to $50K+ Salary Savings Ever wondered how a farm kid with a psychology degree becomes a sought-after compensation consultant saving startups tens of thousands on salary costs? 🚀 In this eye-opening conversation, Matt McFarlane shares his unconventional journey from struggling to land his first HR role to leading people operations across 70 countries for a 600-person tech company. But here's the twist - he walked away from corporate life to solve one of the most challenging puzzles in business: getting compensation right. 🔥 What You'll Discover: The ONE piece of career advice that changed everything (and why Gen Z is getting it right)How Australian IR experience gives you a massive advantage in global rolesThe "title inflation" strategy that's controversial but works for startupsWhy Matt thinks HR should own compensation decisions, not financeThe living wage philosophy that splits the HR communityReal examples of saving companies $25K+ with better salary data💡 Career Game-Changers: Why being "too idealistic" can damage your relationships and career progressionThe team structure hack that eliminates reactive firefightingHow to have compensation conversations with ANY executive (they WILL listen)The Richard Branson quote that became a career manifesto⚡ Controversial Takes: Matt doesn't hold back on hot topics like pay transparency laws, time tracking for HR teams, and why some companies should pay people the same salary regardless of performance. Whether you agree or disagree, these insights will make you think differently about modern HR practices. Perfect for HR professionals, startup founders, career changers, and anyone curious about the intersection of people, culture, and business strategy.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Ever wondered what would happen if every HR professional walked into work as though they owned the place? You’re about to find out. Welcome to HR Engage with Jonathan Mamaril. In this episode, Jonathan is joined by Claudia Faulkner—Canadian-born, UK-raised and, for the past three decades, a force in Australian HR. Claudia was forged in the fiery world of industrial relations at the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry before pivoting into engineering, where she’s spent 19 years honing her reputation as the “Swiss-army-knife” generalist every project team wants in their corner.In this conversation, Claudia unpacks her trademark owner-mindset—the philosophy that lets her pitch hard-to-fill roles like she’s selling a stake in the company and craft retention rituals that keep top-tier engineers sticking around. She also tackles the elephant in every hybrid office: why perpetual WFH could stunt junior talent and how leaders can bring knowledge-sharing back to life.Whether you’re an early-career HR pro stocking your toolkit or a seasoned executive hungry for sharper commercial impact, buckle up. Claudia’s blend of candour, resilience and big-picture pragmatism will challenge how you hire, develop and hold onto great people—while proving that HR can be every bit as profit-driven as the boardroom expects.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of HR Engage, host Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Tanya Hibbard, a “pracademic” who has steered people strategy everywhere from high-stakes automotive showrooms to remote mine sites and, most recently, oil-and-gas operations. Tanya unpacks how turning HR into a profit centre helped her rise from coordinator to multi-site leader, why mapping every stakeholder (even the finance team you forgot last time!) is non-negotiable, and how she’s building a first-of-its-kind Aboriginal workforce program six-and-a-half hours south of Darwin. In this conversation you’ll learn:Commercial HR 101: How lean automotive margins taught Tanya to speak the language of dollars and KPIs—and why executives finally listened when the numbers hit the screen. Career agility: Moving from car dealerships across Sydney, the Gold Coast and Brisbane to heavy-industry teams in the Bowen Basin, Hunter Valley and PNG, then pivoting to oil & gas without missing a beat. Building inclusive pipelines: The inside story on launching an Aboriginal workforce initiative in Elliott, NT, and the community partnerships making it stick. Practical wisdom for every HR level: From public-speaking hacks that stop the shakes to the stakeholder checklist that saves projects—and reputations. Future-proofing the profession: Why HR needs more gender balance, and how technology’s march risks eroding the human connections that make workplaces thrive. If you’re an early-career HR pro hunting for confidence, a seasoned leader chasing sharper commercial impact, or anyone curious about people strategy at the coalface (sometimes literally), this episode is your roadmap. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

From London boardrooms to Queensland beaches — meet Heidi Mayhew-Sanders. 🌍💼 In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast with Jonathan Mamaril, you’ll step into the shoes of a global HR leader whose journey spans continents, career pivots, and powerful insights. Heidi opens up about transitioning from operations to HR, navigating the challenges of returning to the Australian job market after 17 years abroad, and what it really takes to lead in today’s ever-changing workplace. Perfect for early-career HR professionals and seasoned leaders alike, this conversation covers: ✨ Commercial HR strategy 🧠 Staying sharp in leadership 💬 The myth of HR being “just for the employer” 💪 Wellness, resilience & the power of backing yourself Whether you’re chasing your next big role or just love a good story — this one’s for you. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, Jonathan sits down with Hayley Fielding, Head of People and Culture at Tunstall Australasia, whose journey into HR didn’t start in a boardroom — it started in a campervan. 🛻 From leading teams in retail and healthcare to becoming an executive HR leader, Hayley’s story is a masterclass in learning by doing, backing yourself, and building real impact in people’s lives at work. Jonathan Mamaril dives deep with Hayley on: How leadership experience translates into HR success 💼Why performance management is more powerful than policies 📈The hidden dangers of “single point of failure” roles 🚨Why HR shouldn’t be solely responsible for workplace culture 🎭The value of networking, taking real holidays, and trusting your team 🌴Raw, funny, and filled with sharp advice for early career professionals and seasoned HR leaders alike — this episode is about embracing the messy, human side of human resources.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, Jonathan Mamaril sits down with Nathan Bryant, HR Manager at Nauru Airlines, for a refreshingly honest and insightful deep dive into what it really means to lead in today’s evolving HR landscape.Nathan’s journey spans from stacking shelves on night shift to steering HR strategy across borders — and in this conversation, he unpacks it all. From industry pivots to building HR departments from scratch, navigating workplace resistance, and why he thinks people are puzzles that strategy alone can’t solve.You’ll hear:Why jumping industries made him a better leaderHow HR can shift from “hire and fire” to strategic partnershipThe silent toll of burnout (and how not to bring it home)What junior HR pros should actually be doing to find their nicheWhy authenticity, upskilling, and prioritising family matter more than everPacked with practical wisdom, candid advice, and a few curveballs (yes, we’re talking gaming, Tolkien, and cat mansions), this episode sets the tone for the kind of real, frank conversations HR Engage is here to deliver.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Welcome to this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, with Jonathan Mamaril. Today, Jonathan talks with Sonya Law — an accomplished HR leader, leadership coach, and wellbeing advocate. 🌟Sonya shares her inspiring journey from studying IT and accounting to becoming a respected voice in human resources and leadership. With a career spanning mining, education, and organisational transformation, she brings unique insights into the evolving role of HR as the custodians of culture and the thermometers of business health. 🌍Sonya discuses why self-care is crucial for sustainable leadership 💆‍♀️, how wellbeing initiatives need to move beyond simple compliance ✅, and why "progress over perfection" is the new standard for success.Packed with career advice, leadership wisdom, and plenty of humour — including why managing a boardroom sometimes feels a lot like managing a kindergarten 🏖️👶 — this conversation is a must-listen for HR professionals, leaders, and anyone passionate about building better workplaces.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this edition of the podcast, Jonathan sits down with the Rod Francisco, a HR leader with a diverse background that spans from his early career in the military to strategic roles in the resources sector and local government.Rod shares his journey of transitioning from the army to human resources, where he developed his passion for leadership, culture, and values. He offers insights into the simplicity of effective HR practices and how these can drive business success. Rod also discusses his role as the Queensland State President for the Australian Human Resource Institute (ARRI), where he's been instrumental in reinstating the Queensland State Conference and expanding regional networks.Throughout this engaging conversation, Rod emphasises the importance of culture over industrial relations as the foundation of HR, shares valuable advice for early career professionals, and highlights the essential collaboration between HR and finance. Whether you're new to the HR field or a seasoned practitioner, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to think differently about HR strategies and leadership.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Welcome to the HR Engage Podcast with Jonathan Mamaril, in this episode of Jonathan sits down with renowned HR leader Mark Linley, whose career spans over two decades across diverse industries including aviation, retail, corrections, and immigration. Mark brings rich insights from his 12 years in Dubai, where he managed regional HR operations for organisations with workforces exceeding 220,000 employees. With experience leading HR functions in some of the world’s top 50 companies, Mark discusses what it means to be a bold, ideas-led HR leader—and why mastering commercial drivers is essential for HR professionals at every level. From pushing through early career doubts to advocating for cross-functional learning and coaching the next generation of HR leaders, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways, global perspective, and inspiring moments. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage, host Jonathan Mamaril is joined by Oloff Visser, a seasoned executive with an impressive career across South Africa, New Zealand, and Australia. From industrial relations and legal negotiations to large-scale change management and business transformation, Oloff’s journey is packed with wisdom for HR professionals at every stage of their career.Jonathan and Oloff discuss what it really means for HR to add value, why understanding how a business makes money is critical, and how trust, communication, and subtle leadership can transform organisations. Whether you're looking for career inspiration or practical advice on leading people and culture, this conversation is one not to miss.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Welcome to this edition of the HR Engage Podcast, with Jonathan Mamaril.  In this edition of the podcast, Jonathan talks with Paula Holden, a seasoned leader in HR and people & culture, with nearly 30 years of experience across executive leadership, board directorships, and workforce strategy. This episode explores Paula’s diverse career journey—from her early days in HR to her current role as Chief People Officer at the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners.Listeners will gain insights into mentoring, strategic HR leadership, and the evolving landscape of workplace culture. Paula shares her thoughts on the challenges of hybrid work, the impact of AI on HR, and why HR professionals must secure a seat at the decision-making table.This episode is a must-listen for HR professionals, business leaders, and anyone passionate about building better workplaces and stronger teams. Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, Jonathan Mamaril is joined by Samantha Pickering, Chief Operating Officer at Queensland Computers and a 40 Under 40 award recipient. With a career spanning diverse industries—from early childhood education to automotive sales and HR leadership—Samantha brings a wealth of experience in people management, leadership development, and workplace culture.Together, they discuss the power of mentorship, the balance between compliance and culture in HR, and the challenges of managing a multi-generational workforce. Samantha shares her personal journey, offering practical advice for HR professionals at all levels.Tune in for a compelling conversation filled with valuable insights on navigating change, fostering employee engagement, and shaping the future of HR.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

🚀 Welcome to the HR Engage Podcast! Today, we sit down with Roseta Jacobs—a powerhouse in HR, learning & development, and workplace transformation. From growing up in apartheid South Africa to breaking barriers in corporate leadership, Roseta shares her inspiring journey, insights on workplace diversity, and why learning & development is the key to change.🔹 What you'll learn in this episode:✅ How Roseta's early life shaped her leadership approach 🌍✅ The role of HR beyond policies—fostering growth & inclusion 🏢✅ Why challenging the status quo is the best thing for HR 🚀✅ The BIGGEST challenges in HR today & how to tackle them 💡📌 Chapters:00:00 - Intro 🎬01:20 - Roseta’s journey: From apartheid to HR leadership 🌍10:45 - Learning & development: The most underrated HR function 📚18:30 - The importance of diversity, inclusion & belonging 💡28:15 - HR’s biggest struggles & future trends 🔮35:50 - Roseta’s advice for early-career HR professionals 🚀42:10 - Final thoughts & words of wisdom 💬🔥 Don’t miss out! Hit LIKE 👍, SUBSCRIBE 🔔 & drop your thoughts in the comments!Produce by: www.practiceproof.comProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage podcast, Jonathan Mamaril talks with Natasha Hydon. For those who work in government, whether local or state, Natasha probably needs no introduction. Her career spans decades and industries, with a central focus on connection—whether it’s people, systems, or ideas. From Melbourne to Mount Isa, Natasha’s journey is rich with lessons on adaptability, leadership, and the evolving role of HR in addressing modern challenges like psychosocial safety and hybrid work environments. Get ready for an inspiring conversation filled with insights, stories, and practical advice!Reach out to Jonathan at www.southgeldard.com.auProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this edition of the podcast. Jonathan sits down with Dave Madeley, an accomplished HR Manager and People & Culture Leader, for an insightful discussion that challenges traditional HR perspectives.Drawing from his unique background in law enforcement and extensive international experience, Dave brings a refreshing philosophy to HR management. He advocates for HR as a vital business support function, offering an alternative to the conventional crisis-management approach often seen in industrial relations.Dave's diverse experience spans local government, private enterprise, and international markets, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on effective people management strategies.Contact Jonathan at: www.southgeldard.com.auProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

In this episode of the HR Engage Podcast, Jonathan Mamaril talks with Nicole Hall. Nicole has had an incredible career journey, pivoting from economics and investments into senior HR roles across industries like mining, construction, and government. Most recently, she’s been driving people and culture initiatives in a retirement living company.In this episode, she shares her unconventional path into HR through remuneration and benefits, her fascination with industrial relations (what she calls "the dark arts"), and her vision for HR's future in navigating evolving workplace challenges. Plus, she reveals how her work with Seven Minds is redefining investigations through a compassionate, culture-first approach.Reach Jonathan at www.southgeldard.com.auProduced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof

Welcome to the first episode of the HR Engage Podcast with Jonathan Mamaril! In this debut episode, Jonathan is joined by Kerine Nightingale, a highly experienced HR professional with a remarkable consulting background.Kerine dives into her career journey, sharing how being "thrown into the fire" early on helped her develop a fearless approach to tackling challenges, which became a cornerstone of her success in HR. She also offers valuable insights into navigating the HR landscape, including practical advice on working with organisations where HR is genuinely valued and has a meaningful seat at the decision-making table.This episode is a must-listen for HR professionals and anyone curious about thriving in the world of human resources.Tune in again in two weeks for the next episode in the series!For more information or to connect with Jonathan Mamaril, visit South Geldard Lawyers.Produced and published by Law Firm Marketing experts, Practice Proof