The Secret Resume

From Burnout to Balance: Laura Allen’s Journey from HR Coordinator to Confident Consultant

In this episode of The Secret Resume podcast, join our host Melody Moore as she chats with the incredible Laura Allen, an operations and people partner based in London. Laura opens up about her unique career journey, the pivotal moments that have defined her, and the influential figures along the way.
From wrestling with a rigid corporate narrative to embracing a more flexible and empowering fractional model, Laura's journey is one of resilience and reinvention. She discusses overcoming personal challenges, including navigating a toxic relationship, managing undiagnosed autism, and dealing with profound loss, all while outlining how these experiences have shaped her professional path.
Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Laura's unfiltered and heartfelt stories infused with both vulnerability and strength. This intimate and candid conversation will leave you pondering what true freedom looks like and how you can harness life's challenges to sculpt your own fulfilling journey.
 
You can connect with Laura here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraallencoach/
Laura's book recommendations: 
52 Weeks of Wellbeing: A No Nonsense Guide by Ryan Hopkins - https://amzn.to/4dRz8N6
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss - https://amzn.to/4kT9Ykd
The Road Less Travelled by M. Scott Peck - https://amzn.to/440seRl
The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer - https://amzn.to/45h7Z4b
Founder vs Investor: The Honest Truth About Venture Capital from Startup to IPO by  Elizabeth Zalman and Gerry Neumann - https://amzn.to/3Zre8XI
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
 

From Call Centres to Culture Architect: Steph Thommen’s HR Journey (Episode 43)

What happens when a French academic-turned-call-centre-agent becomes an expert in startup culture and people operations?
In this episode, Melody Moore sits down with Steph Thommen, Fractional Head of People, culture geek, and accidental entrepreneur, to explore the career pivots, personal influences, and deep values that don’t show up on her LinkedIn profile, but shape everything she does.
From her rebellious, wine-sharing aunt to building high-performing teams in tech startups, Steph shares candid insights into the messy magic of leading with humanity. Whether you’re navigating scale-up chaos, rethinking your relationship with work, or just curious about what “good HR” really looks like, this conversation will challenge, inspire, and stick with you.
Topics include:
Culture as a strategic tool (not a vibe)
Startup myths and realities
Identity, belonging, and being the “outsider within”
Why being treated like an adult at 13 shaped her leadership lens
 
 
You can connect with Steph here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/startupsteph/
 
Steph's book recommendation: 
Drive by Dan Pink - https://amzn.to/4dNX5Fc
Find Your Why by Simon Sinek - https://amzn.to/4dJmmQV
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown - https://amzn.to/4jyuKnD
 The 10 Laws of Trust by Joel Peterson - https://amzn.to/4dJAXMc
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni - https://amzn.to/4kOBYoE
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.

Fake it, Make it, Own it: Debbie Hayler on Building Confidence Without Credentials (Episode 42)

Welcome to another episode of the Secret Resume podcast, where we’re all about digging into the juicy stories behind the LinkedIn profiles. Today, Melody welcomes Debbie Hayler to share her captivating journey full of unique twists and turns that didn’t quite make it onto her CV but have definitely shaped who she is today.
Debbie shares what it was like growing up as a victim of school bullying, and how those tough experiences played a part in moulding her career perspective. You’ll hear about the ups and downs of her educational path, her decision to pursue performing arts, and eventually her rewarding career in Learning and Development (L&D).
Get inspired as she talks about imposter syndrome, the impact of an empowering TED Talk by Amy Cuddy, and the profound difference a supportive mentor can make. Plus, Debbie spills on her incredible feeling of validation after winning a prestigious L&D award, and how she’s now ready to inspire others by stepping out of her comfort zone.
So, grab your favourite drink, sit back, and enjoy this discussion between two passionate human beings delving into the magic of personal growth and professional journeys.
 
You can connect with Debbie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiehayler/
 
Debbie's book recommendation: 
Presence by Amy Cuddy - https://amzn.to/3SiGhwa
 
Amy Cuddy's TED Talk that Debbie references: https://youtu.be/Ks-_Mh1QhMc?si=1pMKMLCA5otcmmZp
 
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
 

Being More Human, Less Resource: Karen Hughes on HR with Heart (Episode 41)

This week we dive into the untold stories of Karen Hughes, a fearless leader in HR with a background that spans retail giant M&S to the management consultancy Hay Group. She's here to share her unique insights on what it means to truly embrace change and lead with authenticity in today's work environment.
Join us as we chat about everything from Karen's early work experience in retail (including selling a giant chocolate bunny to Victoria Beckham!) to her view on the future of HR. Learn how her journey shaped her views and strategies in HR and talent development. 
Whether you’re in HR yourself, or simply curious about what it means to be human at work, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle your own messy, magical career path. Enjoy the conversation! 
 
You can connect with Karen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-hughes-chartered-fcipd-75035811/
 
Karen's book recommendation: 
Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni - https://amzn.to/3Ztz4gB
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
 

A Wondering Wander Through The World: Neuroscience and Learning with Stella Collins (Episode 40)

Welcome to the latest episode of the Secret Resume podcast, where we dive into the untold stories that shape my guests' careers and lives. Today, we're in for an exciting chat with Stella Collins, an amazing advocate for brain-based learning and the co-founder of Stella Labs.
Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey from Stella's foray into IT in the '80s to her passion for making learning impactful. We'll explore expert systems, early e-learning, and the ever-evolving field of neuroscience.
Tune in for some captivating insights and maybe a sprinkle of laughs along the way! 
 
You can connect with Stella here: hhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stellacollinslearningrevolution/
 
You can find Stella's books here:
'Neuroscience for Learning and Development' here: https://amzn.to/4drv6eo
Writing Skills pocketbook: https://www.pocketbook.co.uk/product/writing-skills-pocketbook/
Webinars pocketbook: Top Tips to ensure your meeting, presentation or training session is a virtual winner https://www.pocketbook.co.uk/product/webinars-pocketbook/
 
And her LinkedIn Learning Programme Here: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/using-neuroscience-for-more-effective-l-d/using-neuroscience-in-training
 
Stella's book recommendations: 
What Makes Training Really Work by Ina Weinbauer-Heidel - https://amzn.to/4mhL6nc
The Extended Mind by Annie Murphy Paul - https://amzn.to/44zuTDv
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.

Rebel with a Cause: Perry Timms on HR Transformation (Episode 39)

Welcome to another episode of the Secret Resume podcast, where we dive deep into the untold stories and secret resumes of fascinating guests! This week, I'm thrilled to chat with the incredible Perry Timms, a true innovator in the world of HR.
Perry shares the colourful journey that brought him to the HR field, starting from his early days in the civil service to becoming a renowned HR leader. We explore his passion for learning, curiosity, and why he proudly wears the badge of a 'Rebel with a Cause'. 
We take a closer look at HR trends, the future of management, and what it means to create a truly people-powered organisation. Plus, Perry spills the beans on what he believes are essential areas for HR professionals to focus on for future success. 
Whether you're in HR, curious about personal growth, or just love hearing about unique career paths, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let's get inspired together! 
 
You can connect with Perry here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perrytimms/ or here: https://pthr.co.uk/
 
You can find Perry's books here: https://amzn.to/44qPABA
 
Perry's book recommendations: 
Books by Russell Ackoff (Systems thinker) - https://amzn.to/3GHf9o4
Reinventing Organisations by Frederick Laloux (10 year anniversary) - https://amzn.to/432nFWe
Humanocracy by Gary Hamel and Michele Zanini - https://amzn.to/4iSuIqe
Teal Dots in an Orange World by Erik Ostergaard - https://amzn.to/4iNo30k
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.

Episode 38 - The Truth About Entrepreneurship: Lessons from the Frontline

I'm so thrilled to have you here for this special episode of the Secret Resume podcast.
It's just Melody here today, and after a bit of a technical hiccup (yes, I forgot to turn on my microphone the first time), I'm ready to share some incredible insights from series six!
In this episode, we dive deep into the journeys of entrepreneurs from all walks of life, from software innovators to yoga retreat hosts.
I found four major lessons: embracing the unpredictable journey into entrepreneurship, learning resilience in the face of setbacks, understanding the true meaning of work-life balance, and the essential role of community and networks in finding success.
Whether you're on the brink of launching your own venture or just need a little inspiration in your career, these insights are sure to resonate.
So grab your favourite beverage, get comfy, and let's chat about the beautiful, twisty journey of entrepreneurship. You won't want to miss it! 
If you want to access the 'Balance Wheel' I referenced in the episode, click here to join the Liberare Community where you can access this and many other helpful tools. https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.

Episode 37 - Anne Damgaard - 'The Road Less Travelled'

Join us this week for an inspiring chat with the incredible Anne Damgaard as she shares her eclectic career path, from her law school beginnings to becoming a solo entrepreneur and mentor. Her candid storytelling takes us from vibrant Berlin school days to embarking on a transformative personal quest with her family, living in a camper on a minimalist discovery journey.
You'll hear about her powerful insight on working for 'enough,' the freedoms and challenges of entrepreneurship, and learning to balance life’s demands without losing sight of what truly matters. Anne's story is a wonderful reminder to live authentically and pursue our passions. 
Tune in, feel inspired, and maybe rethink how you view entrepreneurship and personal growth. We hope you love it as much as we did! 
 
You can connect with Anne here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-damgaard-mentoruddannelse/
 
Anne's book recommendations: 
The Go Giver by Bob Burg and John David Mann - https://amzn.to/41jLHMy
 
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.

Episode 36 - Carol Driver - 'The Obsession'

Welcome to the Secret Resume podcast! Today we're diving into an inspiring conversation with PR expert Carol Driver. Carol has been a trailblazer in journalism for over 25 years and now runs her own PR company, helping entrepreneurs shine in the national press.
We chat about her exciting career journey, from Billericay's Essex Courier to hitting those high notes at the Mail Online. Carol shares her passion for storytelling and her leap into the world of PR. She’s all about helping her clients make the headlines, and has a talent for spotting a catchy story angle!
We also touched on how sharing your story isn’t just about you—it’s about connecting and helping others who might be on a similar path.
So, if want to better understand the media, PR and storytelling, this is a must-listen! 
 
You can connect with Carol here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroldriver/ or here: https://www.caroldriver.com/
 
Carol's book recommendations: 
The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma - https://amzn.to/3EpvBIf
Make Your Bed by William H McRaven - https://amzn.to/3Ezfjgg
I Thought It Was Just Me by Brene Brown - https://amzn.to/4174w5s
Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://amzn.to/3Qdmtt8
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert T Kayosaki - https://amzn.to/3WQn9YY
Make Money Online by Lisa Johnson - https://amzn.to/4hutj9z
Sales is Easy by Charlie Day - https://amzn.to/3Epwmkz
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.

Episode 35 - Jenny Clark - 'Making It Up As You Go Along'

Hey Secret Resume friends! In this episode, we're diving deep with the multitalented Jenny Clark, a yoga teacher, paddleboard guru, and soon-to-be children's book author. She's the powerhouse behind The Wild Times, blending yoga with nature-packed retreats in the UK and beyond.
We travel back to her humble beginnings (poo picking, anyone?), leading to a vibrant life influenced by outdoor adventures and the world of waitressing. Jenny shares how these experiences laid the foundation for her entrepreneurial spirit and her philosophy on money and happiness.
Plus, she gives us an outsider's perspective on the digital nomad scene and delivers some no-nonsense truths about the entrepreneurial grind. Join us to hear Jenny’s incredible stories and insights that will inspire you to embrace your wild side.
 
You can connect with Jenny here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-clark-2807a673/
and The Wild Times here: https://www.thewildtimes.co/ or here: https://www.instagram.com/thewildtimesco/
 
You can find Jenny's children's book here: https://amzn.to/4hLQFat
 
And if you're on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It's all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
 
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate.  You can access a copy of the full transcript here: https://shorturl.at/VWUAZ
 
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production.  You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody's book 'The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams' or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX  Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
 
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
 
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
 
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.