Yorkshire Business Podcast

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe sits down with Natalie Foster, CEO of Inspire Legal Group, to talk about what it really takes to build and scale a modern law firm.Natalie’s story is anything but traditional.She started a law firm during lockdown — as a non-solicitor — with a simple but powerful question: how would we practise law if the world never opened up again?Fast forward, and Inspire Legal Group has grown beyond a high street offering into specialist areas including mass tort litigation and employment services, building a reputation that competes with — and often exceeds — larger corporate firms.This is a conversation free from ego.We talk about:→ building a tech-first, people-centric law firm→ scaling back to scale up→ listening to and acting on customer feedback→ staying ahead of changing consumer habits→ growing a high-performing team and service→ why owning less of a bigger business can be the smarter moveNatalie also shares the realities of being a non-solicitor in the legal world — the bias, the assumptions, and why she has never allowed herself to feel inferior.Her message is clear:You can have the awards, the LinkedIn presence, the polished website — but if your customer experience doesn’t match it, you won’t succeed.Build well. Treat people properly. Let the results speak for themselves.If you’re a founder, leader or building something from the ground up, this is a must watch.#YorkshireBusinessPodcast #Entrepreneurship #LawFirm #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #FounderMindset #CustomerExperience #ScalingBusiness #WomenInBusinessThis podcast was produced and made possible by OneSource HR Limited.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe sits down with Charley Whitehead, Marketing Manager at Example Marketing, to talk all things personal brand, and why it should be doing far more heavy lifting in your business than you think.The big question:Does your personal brand pre-qualify leads for you?Because if it doesn’t… you might be doing it wrong.We get into what a personal brand actually is (and what it definitely isn’t). Moving beyond performative authenticity and “just showing up online”, this conversation explores how a strong personal brand compounds over time, not just generating leads, but attracting the right ones.We talk about:what a personal brand really is (without the fluff)the difference between a personal brand and a business brandwhere founders get lost trying to build bothhow personal branding can pre-qualify leads before a conversation even happensthe real barriers that stop people getting startedAnd yes… we also talk about Norman the dog, who has somehow taken over Charley’s personal brand.If you’re building a business and wondering whether your personal brand is actually working for you, this is worth your time.#PersonalBrand #MarketingStrategy #LeadGeneration #FounderLife #BusinessGrowth #YorkshireBusinessPodcast #ContentMarketing #Entrepreneurship

This week on the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe is joined by Gill Wetherill, founder of Leeds based consultancy Full Circle HR.Gill specialises in helping businesses plan, configure and implement HR systems that actually work for their organisation. With over 500 HRIS vendors on the UK market, choosing the right platform can feel like navigating a maze.Drawing on her background as a strategic HR Director, Gill explains why HR system projects require both technical expertise and commercial understanding to succeed. From building the business case for a new HRIS through to managing implementation and configuration, she shares why having an expert in your corner can make all the difference.Recently recognised with the Becky Bull Award at the Hireful Partnership Day, Gill is known within the independent HR community for her kindness, warmth and Yorkshire grit.If you’re considering a new HR system or want to understand how HR technology can support business growth, this episode is packed with practical insights.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe sits down with Alison Whitfield from Katchr to explore what it really means to work inside a B Corp business.With B Corp celebrating over 10 years in the UK and a growing community of certified businesses across Yorkshire, this conversation looks at how purpose driven organisations are not just doing good, but outperforming traditional profit first models in revenue generation by up to 7 times.Alison shares her own journey into HR, transitioning from customer experience and product ownership roles into people leadership, and how this has shaped her belief that employees should be treated with the same care and intention as customers.We discuss:• what it means to be B Corp certified• why values and vision alignment drives performance• the link between employee experience and customer experience• how purpose led organisations create competitive advantage• why business can and should be a force for goodIf you have ever thought there must be more to business than just the bottom line, this episode is for you.#BCorp #YorkshireBusiness #HRLeadership #PurposeDrivenBusiness #EmployeeExperience #Leadership #BusinessPodcast #SocialImpact #PeopleStrategy #CustomerExperience---------This podcast was made possible by OneSource HR Limited.

This week on the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe is joined by Ria Jackson from Inclusive Minds UK. Ria is on a mission to make neuro-inclusion the norm.Ria shares her story from the military as an avionics engineer, into teaching engineering, to being diagnosed with ADHD and dyspraxia, and how a mental breakdown became the turning point that pushed her to stop trying to fit into traditional 9 to 5 work and build Inclusive Minds UK.They talk about what neuro-inclusion actually means, why Ria believes it should be inclusion for all brains, and why workplaces need to stop designing learning as if one size fits all. Expect honest conversation about learning science, attention cycles, unlearning, and why training completion does not equal real learning or real change.Ria also gives a preview of her upcoming work, including her white paper and the Built for Brains framework designed to improve inclusive learning with measurable impact.Her message is simple and powerful. You will get things wrong. Do not be scared. Try, fail, fail forward, and keep going.This episode was made possible by OneSource HR Limited.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe sits down with a true Doncaster serial entrepreneur to talk about what it really means to keep building when others don’t see the vision.From innovating and developing a new retail finance model and app, which was initially laughed at by investors, to eventually selling that same product to those very investors, this is a story about resilience, belief and long-term thinking.Alongside this, he shares his current venture as Co-Founder of Morning Glory, a breakfast brand challenging the cereal aisle with simple, better ingredients and a fresh approach to how food brands are built.The conversation explores entrepreneurial identity, risk-taking, rejection, innovation and the mindset required to keep going when the odds feel stacked. It’s not just about one business, but about the spirit of entrepreneurship that drives repeated reinvention.An honest, grounded listen for anyone building, pivoting or backing themselves in business.This episode was made possible thanks to OneSource HR.

This week on the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe is joined by Andy Hanselman, founder of Andy Hanselman Consulting and a true local legend in the South Yorkshire business community.This episode is a masterclass in public speaking as a business skill, not a performance art. Andy shares practical, generous advice on how anyone can improve the way they speak, whether that’s to their team, investors, clients, or wider network.They explore how public speaking builds credibility, confidence and influence, why it’s essential for leaders and business owners, and how mastering communication can help you stand out in crowded markets.With over 30 years’ experience helping businesses become dramatically and demonstrably different, Andy brings his trademark energy and action-focused insight to a conversation that will change how you think about speaking, presence and impact.If you want to communicate better, lead better and be remembered for the right reasons, this one’s for you.This episode was made possible by OneSource HR.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe Wallace sits down with Doncaster founder and TEDx speaker Hannah Dunn, creator of Mind Wellbeing. Hannah is on a bold mission to change the language we use from “mental health” to “mind wellbeing” because she believes the word “mental” is loaded with fear and shame and keeps people stuck.Together, Chloe and Hannah explore why so many approaches are reactive and reparative, why prevention has to be the priority, and how simple shifts in language can change how people connect, disclose and recover. Hannah shares her two prevention models, including a story led curriculum for children aged 3 to 7, and Mind Wellbeing Champions, a programme designed to help adults build a stronger sense of self and practical tools for managing emotions and energy.This is an honest conversation about stigma, identity language like “I am” versus “I feel”, and why wellbeing can be improved through simple, human steps that build community and connection.This podcast was made possible by OneSource HR Limited.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe sits down with Hannah Strawbridge, newly appointed Director at Inspire Legal, following their recent merger with the Halifax-based law firm HanLaw Hannah is a specialist discrimination lawyer with a mission to challenge outdated norms within the legal profession. Together, we explore how she is reshaping what a law firm can look like, harnessing flexibility, remote working, diversity and AI to build a modern, ethical and commercially effective practice supporting businesses across the UK and internationally. Hannah shares why she believes law needs duality: you can be both ethical and commercial, people-first and high-performing. We also discussthe pressures of traditional legal culture, the importance of accessibleemployment law, and how modern legal services can better protect, empower andevolve with today’s workplaces. For HR leaders, business owners and anyone navigating employment law, this one is unmissable. This podcastwas made possible by OneSourceHR.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe of OneSource HR Limited sits down with Jenny Martin, Director at Headstar, a boutique finance recruitment agency based in Leeds and working across Yorkshire and nationwide.Jenny brings over a decade of experience recruiting everything from transactional finance roles through to C-suite and executive positions. But this conversation goes much deeper than job titles.Together, Chloe and Jenny explore the systemic barriers preventing talented women from progressing into senior finance roles, from outdated family leave legislation, to the scarcity of part-time and job-share opportunities in the private sector, to the structural issues in the talent pipeline itself.Despite 46% of qualified accountants being women, Jenny sees an average of just 10% female candidates for the most senior finance roles.They also discuss the power of peer-to-peer networks, mentorship and sponsorship, and how women can support each other to reach their full potential in the finance profession.A grounded, honest, and hopeful conversation about what still needs to change, and how Yorkshire businesses can lead the way.This episode was made possible by OneSource HR Limited.

This week on the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe Wallace of South Yorkshire based OneSource HR is joined by Leanne Perry, HR Manager at ZND, a leading manufacturer based right here in Rotherham.Leanne talks openly about what it’s really like to lead HR as a standalone professional in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. We chat about building confidence when you don’t always feel it, finding credibility through listening and visibility, and learning how to speak the language of business without losing who you are.Her journey is a reminder that confidence isn’t something you’re handed, it’s something you build. Leanne’s warmth, honesty and grounded approach make this episode a brilliant listen for anyone in HR, or anyone trying to find their voice at work.This episode was made possible by OneSource HR Limited.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe Wallace of OneSource HR speaks with Kristin Thue, representing the Employers Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) — a national charity helping employers take action on domestic abuse in the workplace.October marks Domestic Abuse Awareness Month, and with 1 in 4 employees affected by domestic abuse during their lifetime, this conversation shines a light on why every employer must care.We explore:• How domestic abuse impacts the workplace and the wider economy• The myths surrounding victim and perpetrator profiles• EIDA’s practical 3 R’s framework for employers• The HR Charter and how to implement it in your organisationThis is a heartfelt and practical discussion, from one HR professional and victim-survivor to all those striving to make workplaces safer, more compassionate and more informed.Check out the work of EIDA and support it via the below link:What we do | Employers' Initiative on Domestic Abuse

Next up on the Yorkshire Business Podcast, our host Chloe, sits down with Debbie Whitehead, CEO of Clear Quality Limited.Based in Wath upon Dearne, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, Debbie has grown Clear Quality from a local consultancy into an internationally recognised business, over the past 9 years. In fact, she’s seen 70% growth, added 13 brilliant people to her team in the last 12 months alone, as well as leading the business through a successful Ofsted inspection achieving ‘Good’ across the board.From trailblazing new governance apprenticeship standards to expanding into safeguarding training, Debbie’s approach to leadership is a real masterclass in spotting opportunity, even in the toughest situations.We have personally admired Debbie for a long time, and what stands out most about her is her mindset. She truly sees the opportunity in everything, a proper Yorkshire outlook if ever there was one.Tune in to hear from someone who proves that with the right attitude and a clear plan — Plan, Do, Check, Act — anything is possible.This podcast episode was made possible by OneSource HR.

This week on the Yorkshire Business Podcast, we are joined by Lorna, founder of Coming From A Good Place, a tailored corporate gifting business where everything (quite literally) comes from a good place.From Simpkins sweets to Yorkshire Candle Company and Yorkshire Crisps, Lorna’s hampers are full of locally sourced treasures that bring thoughtfulness and quality back into the world of corporate gifting.What started during Covid, after a simple “business ideas” Google search, has now become a thriving company that blends Lorna’s natural empathy, care, and years of frontline experience supporting individual welfare, with her passion for meaningful connection in the workplace.Originally from Cornwall, and having lived internationally, Lorna found her heart (and her business home) in Sheffield, where she’s been proudly based for the last 11 years.🎧 Tune in to hear how a small idea born in lockdown grew into a values-led business that’s redefining corporate gifting — one good place at a time.This podcast is produced and sponsored by OneSource HR Limited.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, hostChloe Wallace from OneSource HR introduces her ground-breaking CEASE Framework®. The UK’s first continuous improvement methodology designed to prevent workplacesexual harassment.We explore how the framework helps organisations move beyond tick-box compliance, embedding cultural change through a practical five-step cycle: Call it out cultureEducateAssess riskStrengthen systemsEvaluate and evolveDrawing from her 15 years in HR, plus specialist training in trauma-informed practice, Chloe shares why harassment prevention must be treated like any other core business process, measurable, evidence-based, and aligned withinternational standards such as ISO 30415 and ISO 45001.This episode is essential listening for HR leaders, senior managers, and business owners ready to tackle sexual misconduct proactively and create safer, more respectful workplaces. Listen now and contact Chloe at [email protected] tolearn how your organisation can adopt the CEASE Framework®.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe — a trauma-informed HR practitioner specialising in workplace sexual misconduct, sits down with seasoned Sheffield-based employment law solicitor, Liam Kenealy. Together, they unpack what the Worker Protection Act means for employers now it’s been in force for almost a year.They explore the new preventative duty, what a “reasonable steps” defense looks like in practice, and how SMEs can prepare for the unpredictability of human behaviour in the workplace. This isn’t theory, it’s practical, Yorkshire-based expertise from HR and legal perspectives, designed to help employers protect their people and their businesses.This episode was made possible by OneSource HR.

On this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe from OneSource HR is joined by James Coughlan, Founder of Reef, the fast-scaling platform giving workers access to almost 10,000 laptop-friendly spaces across 20 countries.What may look like a simple concept — finding a place to work — is in fact solving some of the most complex challenges facing businesses today: productivity, wellbeing, engagement, and the future of hybrid work.James shares his entrepreneurial journey, the bold vision behind Reef, and why giving employees real choice over where they work isn’t just about flexibility, it’s about performance. We dive into what this means for HR directors, freelancers, and global businesses alike, and why Yorkshire’s business ecosystem is the perfect place for innovation with international impact.Sponsored by OneSource HR.Exclusive discount code for the Reef app for all Yorkshire Business Podcast listeners: ONESOURCE20

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, host Chloe sits down with Jack Nicklin, Managing Director of Tell Media, a fast-growing broadcast and video production company rooted in York, North Yorkshire, with offices globally in Kuwait and Kuala Lumpur.We talk about what it takes to scale a niche Yorkshire business in an industry long dominated by London, and why investing in local talent is so important for the creative sector. Jack shares his vision for international growth, how he manages teams across multiple time zones, and the exciting opportunities that come with blending fresh ideas, new technology and proven broadcast expertise.From Yorkshire roots to a global footprint, this conversation explores entrepreneurship, leadership and the future of media. Jack demonstrates that Yorkshire businesses have ambition, and that they can, and should, be competing on the world stage.🎙 Hosted by Chloe, proudly sponsored by OneSource HR.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe speaks with Lou (Louise Sleightholm), creator and stylist at @LousCorporateLife, founder of sustainable workwear brand Mode, and co-founder of the Leeds Young Professionals Network.Lou shares how she turned a personal pain into a movement, building a community of over 300,000 people inspired by her daily advice on corporate style. But this conversation goes far beyond fashion. Together we explore the links between workwear, confidence, and self-esteem; how uniform policies can impact women at work; and why comments on appearance, too often dismissed as “harmless”, can contribute to a culture where sexual harassment is normalised.This episode is about sustainability, confidence, and culture, and how leaders can rethink policies, behaviours, and practices to make the workplace not only more stylish, but safer and more empowering for everyone.This podcast was made possible by OneSource HR.

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, hosted by Chloe Wallace, and proudly sponsored by OneSource HR, I sit down with James Woods, CEO of Citizens Advice Doncaster, to explore how his 15-year journey through the organisation has shaped his people-first leadership style.Under James’ tenure as CEO, Citizens Advice Doncaster has transformed its reach from supporting just 3,000–4,000 people per year to an incredible 10,000 last year, bringing £9 million of income into Doncaster’s economy.But it’s not without challenges. James busts one of the biggest misconceptions — Citizens Advice is not government funded. Instead, as an independent charity, they rely on innovation, collaboration, and partnerships with organisations like the Coalfields Regeneration Trust and Centurion to sustain and grow their impact.We discuss everything from:Fighting against “digital by design” and instead championing “digital by choice” to prevent digital exclusion and poverty in South Yorkshire.How Citizens Advice Doncaster links directly to employability and employee wellness across the region.What it really takes to lead a values-driven organisation in challenging times.👉 Listen now to hear James’ inspiring leadership journey and gain insight into how Citizens Advice is changing lives in Doncaster and beyond.👉 To connect directly with James, you can reach him via email at [email protected]

In this episode of the Yorkshire Business Podcast, Chloe sits down with Pete Shillito, Director of Shillito Exec and Adept Resourcing, and South Yorkshire Chairperson for the Institute of Directors (IOD).We dive into the exciting wave of investment in South Yorkshire, exploring projects at Sheffield Forgemasters, IFA, Special Melted Products, and Castings Technology. Pete highlights how these investments go beyond creating jobs – they build skilled employment opportunities, strengthen the local supply chain, and boost the region’s manufacturing and production sector, which is now up by a sixth compared to pre-pandemic levels (IOD survey insights).We also discuss the entrepreneurial landscape in Sheffield and South Yorkshire, and what makes the local business community unique. With nearly 20 years’ experience in executive search and recruitment, Pete shares advice on building people-centred relationships with recruiters in a world increasingly driven by AI – reminding us why the human touch in recruitment still matters.This episode is produced and sponsored by OneSource HR, Rotherham-based HR specialists supporting SMEs across Yorkshire with trauma-informed HR, workplace misconduct expertise, and practical HR solutions.

In this episode of Yorkshire Business Podcast, Margaret Wood from VMG Associates joins us, to challenge the reductive thinking that often hinders businesses from solving their most pressing problems, including the growing skills gaps. From gender inequality to ageism, there are countless barriers that employers face, barriers that are often self-imposed due to outdated perceptions of what work should look like.Our host Chloe, explores how businesses are inadvertently limiting their own potential by sticking to rigid structures that exclude a large portion of the workforce. Whether it’s not embracing flexible working, not creating pathways for women to progress into senior roles, or failing to support an age-diverse workforce, these issues directly affect a company’s ability to be productive and innovative.This is a must listen for business owners, leaders, and HR practitioners alike. Tune in and listen to Chloe and Margaret discuss how breaking down these barriers, whether gender, age, or work structure, can unlock a world of untapped potential, improving productivity and long-term success.Connect with Margaret on LinkedIn here.

In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Breedon, mediator, trainer, and founder of Prospero Mediation and Training. Fresh from a lengthy career in the RAF, Chris shares his unique journey into the world of mediation, driven by a personal experience that ignited his passion for purposeful conflict resolution.We dive into how organisations, despite their best efforts, often fall short when external pressures, like changing political landscapes can drive inequality and internal discord. As two passionate professionals committed to positive and proactive people management, we explore some big questions, like whether internal HR practitioners are really the best choice for mediation.Chris also gives us a glimpse into what typical mediation looks like, showing how SMEs can benefit from mediation before turning to costly employment solicitors. If you’re looking to understand how mediation can transform workplace dynamics, this episode is a must-listen!Tune in and get inspired to take a more proactive approach to conflict resolution. 🎧✨

Team-building doesn’t have to be dull, expensive, or centered around alcohol. In this episode, we sit down with Jo Smedley from Red Herring Games to explore alternative ways to bring teams together, whether in person or remotely, without breaking the bank.With Jo, the only 'professional assassin' you'll meet and survive, we discuss:✅ Creative team-building ideas that are genuinely engaging✅ Rethinking alcohol at work events—the risks, the impact, and how to decentre it✅ How tech makes inclusivity easier—giving companies fewer excuses to ignore itIf you’re rethinking team building, inclusivity at your events, minimising risks associated with alcohol at work events, and company culture, this one’s for you!🎧 Tune in now and learn more about Red Herring Games atwww.red-herring-games.com

In this episode, we explore the pressing need for trauma-informed sexual harassment training in the workplace. With the Worker Protection Act in place and now mandating that employers take proactive steps to prevent harassment, it’s not enough to simply tick compliance boxes. We dive into the power of training as a preventative, cultural shift, exploring why empathy-driven, trauma-informed approaches are essential for protecting and empowering employees. Discover actionable insights on how businesses can evolve beyond punitive policies to foster truly safe, inclusive workplaces.Interested to learn more, check out our website, or contact us on- [email protected]

In this episode we're diving into the foundations of creating a safety-first culture with Andrew, owner of Pro-Vision Health, Safety and Environmental Consultancy . Drawing on Andrew's extensive experience culminating in a corporate role as Global Director at AkzoNobel, we cover everything from communication to recognition, exploring the key building blocks that empower organisations to prioritise safety across all levels.We discuss:The critical role leadership plays in championing a safety-first mindset.How HR and HSE departments can join forces to create a people-first approach to workplace safety.Real-world examples from Andrew on how investing in a safety culture doesn't just protect people—it can also boost your bottom line.Whether you're an HR professional, business leader, or just curious about the intersection of safety and people management, this episode offers actionable insights on why prioritising safety is more than compliance—it's a strategic advantage.Tune in for some practical, hot takes on how creating a safety-first culture can transform your workplace!You can contact Andrew and benefit from up to 30 minutes of free strategy call via his company website - Home Page (pro-visionhse.com)

In this episode of HR hot takes, we're getting straight to the point about the UK's growing skills gap and why leaders needs to step away from the day to day grind to think long term. Using MakeUK's National Manufacturing Day as a prime example, our HR consultant, Chloe, shares practical strategies to engage young talent, and build a pipeline for future skills. We'll cover why it's crucial to bring fresh blood into your business and how failing to do so could mean the end of business continuity. No fluff, just straight talking advice on solving the talent crisis. Whilst today's podcast does discuss MakeUK's NMD, there is no affiliation. Furthermore, we use MakeUK's NMD as an example, but the principles are applicable to a diverse range of sectors.

As always, our objective is to help leaders find the links between people, performance and profit, in a jargon free and actionable way! In this episode our HR consultant, breaks down the essential role of leadership in fostering respect and dignity in the workplace. Through real-life examples, actionable advice, and a brief breakdown of UK employment law like the Equality Act and Worker Protection Bill, this podcast empowers leaders to create safe, inclusive, and legally compliant work environments, for better bottom lines!To learn more about the work that we do, visit www.onesourcehr.co.uk

If you’ve ever googled HR policies or borrowed a template from another business, this podcast is for you. Whether you’re running a startup or scaling up, not all policies are created equal. Join us as we break down which core policies every small business needs—and how to make sure they don’t just tick boxes but truly support growth. From legal essentials like Health & Safety to culture-shaping Equality & Diversity, we’ll explore how well-crafted policies save you time, money, and align with your company’s mission. We loathe written red tape and policies for policies sake at OneSource HR. Stop drowning in paperwork and start building a simple and solutions focused policy framework that drives performance, profit, and protects your people.Find out more about us at www.onesourcehr.co.ukEmail us your HR hot takes at [email protected] for a chance to feature on the podcast.

In the debut episode, the team at OneSource HQ dives deep into the looming employment law changes proposed by the Labour government. Cutting through the noise of scaremongering and jargon-filled posts, this episode offers a straightforward analysis of the potential impact on businesses and employees alike. From the proposed regulation of zero hour contracts to the controversial idea of day-one rights for unfair dismissal claims, and the much-needed reforms to statutory sick pay, we break down what you really need to know.We also explore how these changes might affect SMEs and provide practical advice on how to prepare without succumbing to panic. If you're tired of fear-driven marketing tactics and want clear, pragmatic insights, this episode is for you. Tune in to stay informed and ahead of the curve on these critical HR and employment law updates.Subscribe to ensure you don't miss future episodes packed with valuable HR advice and the latest on employment law. Visit our website at www.onesourcehr.co.uk for more details.