'My Duvet Flip,' the careers show.
Join Jack Parsons as he delves into an enthralling discussion with people and their careers, where we explore some of their most memorable instances of making mistakes and the valuable lessons they gained from them.
'My Duvet Flip,' the careers show.
Join Jack Parsons as he delves into an enthralling discussion with people and their careers, where we explore some of their most memorable instances of making mistakes and the valuable lessons they gained from them.
Episode Guest
Paula MacKenzie is the CEO of Pizza Express, with a career spanning leadership roles across the food, drink, and hospitality sectors. Known for her drive and authenticity, Paula brings a bold, values-led approach to business and team culture.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:24 Paula’s First Job – Paper Rounds and Earning Freedom
2:23 Young Paula Saves for a Stereo – The Power of Incentives
3:38 What Drives Paula’s Determination?
5:03 What Paula Would Tell Her Younger Self
6:00 Paula on Staying True to Who You Are
7:47 Paula on Boundaries, Values & Handling ‘Darling’ Moments
10:33 From Paper Round to Career Steps – Paula’s Journey Begins
12:04 Why Paula Left Accountancy for Industry
14:46 Paula on Feeling Like an Outsider in Finance
16:05 Lessons from Innocent – How Paula Learned to Break the Rules
18:24 The Show Must Go On – Paula on Doing It Anyway
19:25 Becoming CEO – Paula’s Cross-Functional Climb
22:57 Paula on Imposter Syndrome & Reframing Thoughts
24:56 What Paula’s First Day as CEO Really Felt Like
27:08 Paula’s 4 A’s Framework for Leading From Day One
30:00 The One Life Lesson Paula Swears By
31:41 Quickfire with Paula – Pizza Orders, McFly & Collabs
34:43 Strong Roots and Giving Back – Paula’s Perspective
36:00 Paula’s Duvet Flip – Doing What She Loves Every Day
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest
Nick Foster is the General Manager for Mars Pet Nutrition in Northern Europe, where he leads with a passion for purpose, people, and pets. With nearly 20 years at Mars, he’s held diverse roles across sales, marketing, and supply chain, always driven by a desire to be a good ancestor.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:23 Meet the General Manager of Mars Petcare
1:00 From RAF Dreams to a Business Career
2:05 Finding Purpose Through Pet Care
3:20 Nick’s Duvet Flip: Being a Good Ancestor
4:10 Lessons from McDonald’s and Early Work Ethic
5:15 Accidental Entry into Mars
6:40 Career Advice: Squiggly Lines & Making Friends
8:10 General Management Explained
9:45 Mars Petcare’s Scale and Purpose
11:15 Changing Law to Help Renters with Pets
13:00 Cancer-Sniffing Dogs & Coral Reef Projects
15:00 Mars’ Family Values and Long-Term Thinking
16:40 Starting a Career at Mars: Advice to Young People
18:00 The Myth of Work-Life Balance
19:30 How to Build a Career with Impact
21:10 Nick’s Leadership Style and Communication Growth
23:00 The Power of Mentorship & Sponsorship
25:00 Fun Q&A: Sloths, Brainstorms & Huskies
28:00 Key Digital Skills for Petcare Careers
30:00 Final Lessons on Career, Purpose & Progression
33:15 What Gets Nick Out of Bed Each Day
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest
Tom Wallis is the Chief Customer Officer at Compare the Market, with a dynamic career spanning consulting, startups, and brand leadership. He's known for blending data-driven thinking with creative marketing to lead iconic campaigns.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:48 Tom’s Early Career and First Job
2:53 Lessons from Temping and the Power of Observation
4:55 Joining Accenture and Consulting Foundations
6:54 Why Tom Quit Without a Job
8:33 Dealing with Uncertainty and Finding the Next Step
9:57 Getting into Sky and Discovering Marketing
11:45 Breaking Into the Marketing Team
13:34 Landing His First Marketing Role
15:20 Lessons from Startup Life at Now TV
17:13 Facing Rejection — and Proving Them Wrong
18:42 Creating a Sales Surge That Changed the Business
20:01 Learning to Ask for Help and Growing Fast
21:27 Obsession, Flow States, and Finding His Thing
23:03 Tom’s Biggest Money Regret
24:03 Tom’s Simplest Money Tip for Young People
25:20 Transitioning to Gusto and Building Again
26:44 Joining Compare the Market
28:27 The Culture That Drives High Performance
30:04 What a Chief Customer Officer Really Does
31:25 Reviving One of the UK’s Most Iconic Brands
33:09 How to Build a Personal Brand Authentically
36:16 Tom’s Invisible Success
38:06 Tom’s Duvet Flip – Why He Shows Up Every Day
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest
Rhys Degruchy is the Graduate Development and Support Leader at Halo, where he mentors new talent and helps shape the next generation of high performers. With a background in physics and a passion for people, Rhys is driven by trust, autonomy, and a relentless desire to improve.
Ben Thorpe is the Infrastructure Manager at Halo, having grown through the ranks over seven years. Obsessed with progress and delivery, Ben leads by example and is known for turning ambition into action across high-impact projects.
Episode Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
0:44 Meet Rhys and Ben from Halo
1:36 Why They Said Yes to My Duvet Flip
2:18 Their First Ever Jobs (Coffee Shops & Sunglasses)
4:23 Early Lessons in Communication and Confidence
6:00 How They Found Halo (and Why They Stayed)
8:19 From Suit & Tie to Shorts & Trust: The Halo Culture
10:35 Why Halo Feels Like a Sports Team
12:24 Obsession at Work: What It Means at Halo
13:46 Why Young People Progress So Fast Here
15:02 Who Shouldn’t Work at Halo
16:28 What Halo Has Taught Them About Life
18:10 The Message to Future Applicants
19:20 Their Duvet Flip: Why They Get Out of Bed
Episode Partners
Check out the latest from Halo:
https://halograduates.com and https://www.instagram.com/halonextgen/
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Tim Mason is the CEO of Eagle Eye and a veteran of British retail, best known for his 30-year career at Tesco where he helped launch the Clubcard. He brings decades of experience in marketing, loyalty, and digital transformation.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:41 Meet Tim – The Duvet Flip Moment
1:56 Tim’s First Job: From Fruit Farm to Boardroom
3:06 What Makes a Great First Employee
4:48 The Power of Enthusiasm in Retail
6:07 Why Tim Chose Advertising (At Age 8)
7:20 Breaking Into Unilever with Bad Grades
8:02 The Unexpected Path to Tesco
9:45 Staying 30 Years in One Company
11:06 What Actually Keeps You Moving Forward
12:29 How EQ Beat Academia for Tim
13:35 One Smart Move That Got the Whole Tesco Board’s Attention
15:03 Struggles with Dyslexia and School
16:19 The Importance of Showing Up and Doing the Work
17:19 Culture: How to Read It and When to Leave
18:24 The “Rumble” – Reviving Stores with Real Action
20:14 What’s Happening in Retail Right Now
21:53 Why Retail’s Middle Market Is in Trouble
23:00 Personalisation: The Future of Winning in Retail
24:55 What Eagle Eye Actually Does
26:00 A Route to Double the Size of Eagle Eye
27:15 A Direct Message to Retailers Watching
28:13 The Danger of Grouping Consumers Into ‘Audiences’
29:46 What Retailers Must Do Differently Today
31:04 Launching Clubcard: The Loyalty Gamechanger
32:50 From 0.5B to 10B Offers: Personalisation at Scale
34:00 How Stores Are Using AI to Target Customers
35:27 Why Some Stores Feel “Revved Up” — and Others Don’t
36:39 What the Next Generation of Retail Leaders Need
40:23 Tim’s Duvet Flip: Helping Others Do Better
Episode Partners:
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Matt Callaghan is the Chief Operating Officer at easyJet Holidays, where he leads customer experience, operations, and long-term strategy. With a background spanning Deloitte, British Airways, and frontline leadership at Heathrow, Matt brings a rare blend of operational grit and strategic vision.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
1:23 Why Matt Said Yes to My Duvet Flip
2:14 First Job at Next: Life Lessons from Retail
4:00 Why Students Should Get a Job While Studying
5:24 From No Plan to Deloitte Graduate Scheme
7:01 Taking the First Step Without a 5-Year Plan
8:20 What "All-In" Really Means
10:16 Work-Life Blend and Being Present
13:12 Failing Exams and Bouncing Back
14:43 What Working Hard Means to Matt
17:06 The Power of Curiosity — And Acting on It
18:59 Why Matt Left Deloitte for British Airways
21:00 Moving to London: Expectations vs. Reality
23:00 Feeling Stuck and Choosing to Pivot
24:57 Getting the Heathrow Operations Role Without Airline Experience
27:11 Falling in Love with Aviation
29:00 Why Matt Applied for a Job He Wasn’t Qualified For
30:45 From Terminal 5 to easyJet
32:11 A Global Role That Wasn’t Sustainable
33:02 Joining easyJet and Shaping Strategy
34:46 Building easyJet Holidays from the Ground Up
36:00 Why easyJet Holidays Is a Special Place to Work
37:43 Life Lesson: What Fostering Taught Matt About Leadership
40:18 Matt’s Duvet Flip: Creating Joy and Connection Through Travel
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Sam Sims is the Chief Executive of National Numeracy, with a career rooted in empowering individuals through confidence-building and lifelong learning. His work focuses on supporting those often overlooked to realise their potential with the right tools and encouragement.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:32 Meet Sam Sims, CEO of National Numeracy
1:13 What National Numeracy does
1:54 Sam’s early work and first jobs
3:06 Lessons from the call centre
4:18 How Sam built confidence as an introvert
5:21 Honest talk on imposter syndrome
6:16 Why networking is Sam’s greatest professional tool
7:23 The right (and wrong) way to network
8:55 From research to running his own business
10:11 What his first company was really about
11:02 When business plans don’t go to plan
11:42 Discovering purpose through volunteering in the US
13:10 Helping a teenager unlock maths confidence
14:19 Why confidence is more important than skill
15:06 The long-term impact of belief and encouragement
15:52 Why Sam joined the charity sector
17:02 What keeps him motivated in the third sector
17:51 Why volunteering is the engine behind social impact
18:37 National Numeracy’s biggest annual campaign
19:45 The power of their partnership with Compare the Market
21:00 How number confidence connects to money
22:01 Why financial literacy is about mindset first
23:00 Sam’s biggest money regret
24:06 One money tip Sam wishes he knew at 18
25:00 Helping communities through local volunteers
26:04 What the charity sector gives back to professionals
27:13 The best work-life lesson Sam ever received
28:09 Sam’s final message on confidence and belief
29:00 What gets Sam out of bed in the morning — his duvet flip
Episode Partners:
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Lukas Kaminskis is the CEO of Boom Training and Turing College, two organisations focused on transforming tech education across Europe. He’s a serial entrepreneur passionate about building learner-first experiences that unlock economic mobility.
Benas Sidlauskas is the Chief Business Development Officer at Boom Training and Turing College. A long-time co-founder with Lukas, Benas is driven by creating scalable education models that equip people for the future of work.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:20 Meet Lukas and Benas: Co-Founders of Turing College
1:00 From debating rivals to co-founders
2:00 Lukas' first job: rats, grain, and coding bootcamps
3:20 Why Lukas turned down a political path
5:00 Benas’ first hustle: filmmaking at 14
6:15 The presidential film project that changed everything
7:30 Growing up in small towns, dreaming big
8:45 Turning down top universities to start something new
10:00 Investors said no — so they bootstrapped from scratch
11:20 Explaining bootstrapping: lessons and mindset
12:40 Organising events without a legal entity
14:00 Partnering with Harvard — and how Facebook helped
15:20 Getting government backing to bring CS50 to Europe
16:45 Flying to Boston and signing with Harvard
17:30 What Turing College actually does
18:40 Why AI and data skills matter more than ever
20:10 Scaling across 80+ countries
21:20 Impact stories from Uganda and Nigeria
22:40 Acquiring Boom Training and expanding in the UK
24:10 The apprenticeship system — and how they’re transforming it
25:20 Peer-led learning: the secret behind their model
26:30 What makes UK apprenticeships restrictive
28:00 Levy funding: what SMEs are missing out on
29:30 Why upskilling needs to go beyond senior leaders
31:00 What Europe must do to stay competitive in AI
32:00 Lukas on AI’s impact on the labour market
33:30 The financial mindset that helped them grow
34:20 Benas’ biggest money mistake
35:10 Lukas’ #1 advice on investing in yourself
36:00 Money tip: Spend first on “musts”, then “wants”
37:10 What success looks like in 5 years
38:20 Why education must evolve now
39:30 What’s broken in the system — and their fix
40:30 Their message to young people: take control
41:20 Their message to businesses: don’t forget the non-power users
42:20 Benas’ invisible success: resilience through rejection
43:20 Lukas’ invisible success: 10-year co-foundership
44:30 How they complement each other as co-founders
45:30 What gets Lukas out of bed: fixing the future of work
46:20 What motivates Benas: belief in Europe’s innovation potential
47:40 Jack’s reflections and final thoughts
48:40 Outro and thanks
Episode Partners:
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Richard Walker is the Executive Chairman of Iceland Foods and a passionate advocate for responsible business. He also founded the sustainable property firm Bywater, blending purpose, grit and leadership to champion people and planet.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:48 Why business is a force for good
1:34 Richard’s first job and early lessons in customer service
3:44 What makes a great communicator?
4:53 Battling assumptions and proving himself
6:14 A year on the shop floor: lessons in humility and leadership
8:15 The power of team culture in retail
9:42 Leadership vs management
10:46 Facing hard days in a tough industry
11:58 The palm oil campaign — and media backlash
13:39 Social impact: microloans, food banks and responsibility
15:00 Why politics wasn’t the answer
16:57 Learning resilience through failure and Everest
19:06 Just keep going: Richard’s Everest analogy
20:28 Biggest money regret
21:09 Richard’s money tip to his younger self
21:56 The Poland chapter: starting from scratch
24:51 Returning to the UK and building a bold property vision
28:03 Pushing through the no’s
29:41 Rethinking what a ‘network’ really means
30:59 Is social media helping or harming ambition?
32:13 Staying authentic in the influencer age
33:50 The four Ps: Passion, Purpose, Profit & Peace
36:43 The influence of Richard’s father and family legacy
38:58 Why Richard joined Iceland despite doubts
40:24 The invisible driver behind Richard’s success
41:52 Richard’s duvet flip moment
Episode Partners:
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Nick Bent is the CEO of upReach, a UK-based social mobility charity helping university students from less-advantaged backgrounds secure top graduate jobs. With a background spanning government, business, and the third sector, Nick co-founded upReach to level the playing field for talented young people.
German Bencci is the CEO and founder of CodeYourFuture, a volunteer-driven organisation training individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds to launch successful careers in tech. Originally from Venezuela, German built CodeYourFuture into a global community offering accessible, flexible, and impactful tech education.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:41 Why mentoring and informal conversations matter
1:26 Meet Nick Bent and German Bencci
2:03 First jobs and early career lessons
4:00 Nick's pivot from law to public policy
5:00 German's journey from Venezuela to Europe
6:42 Taking leaps before you're ready
7:49 The power of asking for help
8:13 How mentors shaped Nick and German
9:32 Why in-person learning still matters
11:00 Role models and mindset shifts
12:02 Mentorship at CodeYourFuture and upReach
13:37 From volunteering to founding a charity
16:03 Turning passion into full-time purpose
17:31 Spotting a gap and launching CodeYourFuture
19:02 How young people can start volunteering
21:03 Volunteering as work experience
22:54 The real value of giving your time
24:04 What upReach does for young people
25:26 The graduate job gap and social mobility
27:36 How CodeYourFuture supports career changers
29:54 Removing barriers: childcare, laptops, and support
32:00 How the HG Foundation makes it possible
33:19 What is the Tech 500 programme?
35:12 VIP access to Google HQ
37:05 Restarting CodeYourFuture’s software programme
39:52 How corporate partners can get involved
42:31 Paid internships and practical pathways
44:59 Final question: What's your duvet flip?
Episode Partners:
Hg Foundation
Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.
https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest
Briya Campbell is the Senior Data Enablement Manager at Compare the Market, where she champions innovation and inclusion in the data space. With a dynamic background spanning retail and tech, Briya is passionate about mentorship, representation, and driving commercial impact through data.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:23 Meet the Guest: Senior Data Enablement Manager at Compare the Market
1:03 Bria’s Background: Growing Up in a Single-Parent Household
2:04 First Job Lessons: Patience and Pivoting
4:00 How a Career Academy Opened New Doors
5:57 The Power of Mentorship
7:32 Planning a Future Without a Blueprint
9:00 Being First in the Family to Go to Uni
10:48 The Grit from a Single-Parent Upbringing
12:02 Giving Back: Mentoring Four, Learning from Two
13:25 Breaking into Data After Redundancy
14:44 What Compare the Market Is Really Like
16:27 The Importance of Representation at Work
17:23 Money Tips: Pensions, Budgeting & Saving Early
19:02 Being a Role Model and Staying Authentic
20:47 Advice for Young Black Women in the Workplace
22:30 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
23:55 Why Data & AI Are Exciting Careers
25:29 Final Advice: Take the Risk, Be the Cultural Add
25:50 Bria’s Duvet Flip
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guests
James Turner is the CEO of the Hg Foundation, leading its mission to drive social mobility through technology and education.
Elona Mortimer-Zhika is a Board Trustee at the Hg Foundation and a passionate advocate for diversity, inclusion, and access to tech careers.
Episode Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
0:49 Meet James and Elona from the HG Foundation
1:27 Why tech access is a social mobility issue
2:29 James’ journey from law to education leadership
3:42 Elona’s powerful story: from Albania to tech boardrooms
5:00 Why opportunity is everything — and not equally shared
6:07 What the HG Foundation actually does
8:01 Scaling impact: 100,000 tech opportunities
9:24 Behind the partnerships driving change
11:00 The diversity crisis in tech
12:27 Why inclusion powers better businesses
13:40 Data-backed impact and smarter giving
15:00 Why Elona believes “playing small does not serve the world”
16:26 Who backs the HG Foundation — and why it matters
17:58 The unique power of the HG network
19:46 Why tech careers are ideal for young people
21:26 Mira Murati, ChatGPT & tech role models
23:06 How to future-proof your career with tech
24:52 Real programs, real opportunities
26:07 Final message to the next generation
28:07 James' duvet flip moment
28:43 Elona’s reason for showing up — every single time
29:50 Closing thanks
Episode Partners
Hg Foundation
Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.
https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Matthew Wragg is the CEO at Gattaca Plc. Parent company to Matchtech, Infosec People and Gattaca Projects , where he’s spent over two decades rising through 12 roles to lead the company. Known for his people-first approach and belief in learning through hard graft, Matthew brings deep insight into recruitment, leadership, and resilience.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
1:20 Matthew’s first job and “get the hell out if it’s not learning” mindset
4:10 From door‑to‑door sales to recruitment: the pivot
7:05 What “hard graft” really means and why it matters
10:22 The role of emotional intelligence in recruitment
13:35 How recruitment has stayed the same — and what’s changed
16:40 Building a team game, not just a desk/mini‑business
19:12 The power of curiosity: “everybody knows something you don’t”
22:30 What makes a great recruiter and what the industry gets wrong
25:45 Inside Gattaca PLC: culture, identity & client‑candidate impact
29:10 Matthew’s “duvet‑flip” moment: what wakes him up in the morning
32:05 Financial decisions, bold steps & money tips
35:20 Career reflections: loyalty, learning and making yourself redundant
38:00 Closing thoughts & take‑aways
Episode Partners:
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Tanuja Randery is the Managing Director for Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. A passionate advocate for digital skills and inclusive leadership, she has helped train over 31 million learners globally.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
1:20 From Early Jobs to Self‑Discovery
3:50 Breaking Into McKinsey: Network & Opportunity
6:15 Doing Excellent Work & Beyond the Ask
8:40 The Partnership Snub: Atlanta & Betrayal
11:10 Reflection: What Was Missing
13:00 Connecting What + How in Leadership
15:20 Resilience: Balance, Energy & the 40‑40‑20 Rule
17:45 Building Your “Board”: Sponsors, Mentors & Squad
20:10 Feedback Fear: Receiving, Unpacking, Acting
22:40 Skills, Tech & Digital Futures
25:10 Training 31M Learners & AWS Impact
27:30 What Gets Me Out of Bed: Her “Duvet Flip”
29:00 Final Reflections & Close
Episode Partners
Hg Foundation
Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.
https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest
Penny Taylor is the HR Director at Compare the Market, where she leads with a passion for inclusivity, kindness, and commercial impact. Her career journey spans retail, travel, and people leadership, grounded in real-world grit and deep empathy.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction & Why This Chat Matters
1:15 Penny’s Early Years & Academic Setbacks
3:10 The “Floater” Role — Learning Every Part of a Business
5:00 First Jobs, Travel & Finding Direction
7:25 Transition Into the Corporate World
9:10 Discovering HR: From Regional Manager to People Leader
11:30 The Heart of HR: Doing the Right Thing with Kindness
13:45 How to Be Fair, Inclusive & Honest in HR
15:50 Dealing with Mistakes, Taking Responsibility & Resilience
18:00 Money Lessons: Worst Regrets & Pension Tips
20:10 What Makes a Great HR Professional
22:00 Embracing AI: How She Uses Tech in HR Today
24:10 What Gets Her Out of Bed: The Duvet Flip
25:30 Final Reflections & Advice
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Matt Madrigal is the Chief Technology Officer at Pinterest, where he leads product management, engineering, and infrastructure for the platform. With a career spanning eBay, Google, and Fanatics, Matt is a seasoned e-commerce and tech leader passionate about building positive, high-impact user experiences.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
1:23 From Chico to Pizza Shop: Matt’s First Job
3:45 Lessons in Work Ethic from Immigrant Parents
5:32 What Hard Work Really Means
8:01 The Cheers and Chores Philosophy
10:46 Breaking into Tech & Early Career Moves
13:30 Surviving the Dot-Com Boom
15:58 Joining eBay and Learning at Scale
19:15 Why Shopping & E-Commerce Hooked Matt
21:40 Choosing Managers vs. Missions
24:01 The Truth About AI & Early Career Jobs
27:18 What Makes a Great Software Engineer
30:12 The Red Flags in Tech Talent
32:14 Key Lessons from Google
35:17 Undoing Old Habits to Grow
37:20 Why Matt Said Yes to Pinterest
39:34 What Sets Pinterest Apart
42:01 Using Pinterest to Inspire Youth Spaces
44:00 Why Pinterest Is a Great Place to Work
46:19 Matt’s Biggest Life Lessons
48:35 Matt’s Duvet Flip: Solving Hard Problems with Great People
Episode Partners
Hg Foundation
Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.
https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Graham Rogers
Graham Rogers is the Co-CEO of Homes for Students, bringing a decade of leadership experience in student accommodation and a passion for a people-first culture.
Kate Forester
Kate Forester is the Managing Director at Homes for Students, known for her straight-talking leadership style, focus on team development, and deep commitment to delivering on promises.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:41 Meet Kate & Graham — Double Trouble
1:46 First Jobs: Paper Rounds & Waitressing
4:00 Early Money Lessons & Family Motivation
5:30 Advice for Young People Starting Out
8:00 How to Know When a Job Isn’t for You
10:35 From Waitressing to Banking to Leadership
13:20 Presence, Imposter Syndrome & Tangible Feedback
16:45 Independence & Grit in the Workplace
20:15 Climbing the Career Ladder the Right Way
23:05 Resilience: Why Young People Need More of It
26:15 Giving Feedback Without Fear
29:05 The Story Behind Homes for Students
32:00 How You Leave a Job Matters
35:15 Starting a Business: The Risks & Real Talk
38:00 Leadership Lessons from the Early Days
41:00 Building a People-First Culture
43:00 Dealing with Mucky Ducks in Business
45:00 Learning the Hard Way — Personal Reflections
47:30 What's Next for Homes for Students
49:00 Kate & Graham’s Duvet Flip
Episode Partners
📊 Compare the Market
Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.
https://bit.ly/4i53Svj
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Llorayah Timbou Faucher is a Degree Apprentice at Marks & Spencer who started as a quiet Christmas temp and is now inspiring future leaders. Her story is one of confidence, curiosity, and creating memorable moments for customers and colleagues alike.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:47 Starting as a Christmas Temp at 18
2:05 Nervous Beginnings & Not Knowing the Ropes
3:12 Learning the Power of “Just Ask”
4:30 From Quiet to Confident: Finding Her Voice
6:10 Falling in Love with Retail
7:45 When M&S Went from Job to Dream
9:10 Speaking Up as a Young Leader
10:35 Managing Dyslexia & Team Briefs
12:00 What Retail Teaches You About Life
13:30 Building Real Relationships at Work
14:55 The Role of Mentors in Her Journey
16:10 “You Can Do Anything, But Not Everything”
17:30 Learning to Prioritise & Focus
18:50 From Learner to Leader: Coaching Others
20:10 Inside the Degree Apprentice Programme
21:35 Advice for Future Christmas Temps
23:00 Llorayah’s Duvet Flip — Making People’s Day
Episode Partners
M&S
M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.
https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Kayte Houghton is the Payroll Lead at Marks & Spencer, where she’s risen from admin assistant to leading payroll for 65,000+ colleagues. A champion of resilience, Kayte’s journey from council house to career leadership shows what’s possible when passion meets opportunity.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:49 Kayte’s Early Life as a Teen Mum
2:15 Living on Benefits & Hitting Rock Bottom
3:40 The Courage to Visit the Job Centre
4:50 Discovering the Marks & Start Programme
6:10 Finding a Buzz in Admin Work
7:30 Gaining Confidence from Small Wins
8:45 Getting the Life-Changing Phone Call
10:10 Starting Her First Role at M&S
11:40 Learning the Power of Supportive Managers
13:00 Climbing from Admin to Team Leader
14:35 Reclaiming the Word “Ambitious”
16:00 How M&S Feels Like Family
17:20 Seeking Mentors & Giving Back
18:45 Imposter Syndrome & Belonging
20:00 Falling into Payroll — and Loving It
21:15 Why Empathy Matters When Handling Pay
23:10 From Post Room to Payroll Lead
24:30 Kayte’s Duvet Flip — Personal Pride & Identity
Episode Partners
M&S
M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.
https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Episode Guest:
Kate Goolnik is a Food Business Graduate at Marks & Spencer with a passion for how food gets from supplier to shelf. From night shifts in nightclubs to store openings and sandwich logistics, Kate’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and drive.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:48 Starting Out in Nightclubs During Uni
2:15 Learning to Work With Different People
3:20 The Supermarket Fascination
4:30 From Store Launch to Grad Scheme
6:10 Finding a Sponsor Who Opened Doors
7:55 “It’s Okay Not to Know” — Career Advice
9:40 Why M&S Just Felt Right
11:05 Primary School Doubts & Dyslexia Discovery
12:55 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
14:30 Learning to Flip Your Mindset
15:40 Why Kate Loves M&S Culture
17:10 The Great Sandwich Challenge — A Lesson in Resilience
19:00 Learning from Mistakes and Supporting Others
20:20 Kate’s Duvet Flip — Why She Gets Up Every Day
Episode Partners
M&S
M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.
https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO
Disclaimer:
The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.
Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.
If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice
If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/