
Workplace Confidence Podcast
Welcome to the Workplace Confidence Podcast with Penny Haslam, the place where people professionals share the great work they do.
In each episode hear from leaders in HR, L&D, D&I and more as they share their insights, best practices and tips about making a real difference in the world of work.
We cover the topics that are on your mind - whether it’s finding new ways to align HR strategies across global teams or giving your L&D programs a fresh edge to keep up with today’s demands. Plus the latest thinking about D&I initiatives to create a more inclusive workplace.
We also dig into boosting leadership confidence in challenging sectors like policing and scientific research and the nitty-gritty of managing recruitment in fast-paced environments.
Throughout the series, you’ll pick up valuable advice on how to build a culture of trust, support mental well-being and implement strategies that stick.
We aim, to create a podcast that's your go-to resource for learning from the best in the business - driving the kind of positive change that matters most.
The show is brought to you by Bit Famous - trusted by leading brands to build confidence and communication skills in the workplace. Bit Famous is a finalist in the Personnel Today Awards - L&D Supplier of the Year 2024.
It's hosted by Bit Famous MD and founder Penny Haslam a female motivational speaker on the topics of communication and confidence. She's a former BBC Business News presenter.
Ready to get started? Just search for the Workplace Confidence Podcast - the place where people professionals share the great work they do.
Workplace Confidence Podcast
Disrupting higher education and empowering people at UA92 - Ian Turner
Workplace Confidence Podcast - Disrupting higher education and empowering people at UA92 with Ian Turner.
In this episode, Penny Haslam speaks with Ian Turner, Chief of People and Place at UA92 (University Academy 92). Ian shares how UA92, co-founded by Gary Neville and the Class of 92 footballers alongside Lancaster University, is revolutionising higher education by focusing on social mobility and accessibility. With initiatives like the Make It For Real campaign, UA92 helps remove financial and logistical barriers, offering bursaries, tech support and even meals to students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.
Ian reflects on the rapid growth of UA92, from just 80 students in 2019 to around 1,400 today, driven by its mission to make education accessible for all. He discusses the challenges of scaling up in a traditional sector and how UA92’s culture of being "fired up," deliberately different and inclusive guides their approach.
Penny and Ian delve into Ian’s career journey from sales to HR, highlighting his passion for developing people and fostering a culture where everyone is empowered to lead. Ian shares his approach to making HR more than just a transactional function, emphasising the importance of visibility, human connection, and embedding himself within the organisation.
Throughout the conversation, Ian offers insights on leading with empathy, overcoming imposter syndrome and creating a workplace where people feel valued and fired up. Tune in to hear how Ian is driving UA92’s mission forward, fostering a culture of inclusivity and passion and what it takes to be a visible, authentic leader in today’s evolving world of work.
Listen to all episodes of the Workplace Confidence Podcast