
My Duvet Flip by Jack Parsons
Business & Economics Podcasts
'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.
Location:
United States
Description:
'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.
Twitter:
@YouthGroup_HQ
Language:
English
Website:
http://www.theyouthgroup.com
Episodes
Prashant Narula, Managing Director at Ciklum UK: How to Build a Powerful Network
3/31/2026
Episode Guest:
Prashant Narula is Managing Director of Ciklum UK, where he helps organisations use technology and AI to build better products and experiences. He is passionate about leadership, resilience and helping people grow through honest, values-led careers.
Episode Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:19 Why success is about what you give, not what you get
1:00 The true traits of a great leader
1:55 Meeting Prashant Narula
2:14 Prashant’s first job on the factory floor
3:09 The importance of a great manager early in your career
4:31 How honesty landed Prashant his first role in tech
5:28 Why honesty, resilience and reliability matter most
7:21 Why resilience is more important than ever today
8:41 Build a multi-skilled support network
10:08 How to network by giving value first
11:24 From beginner to leadership roles in hypergrowth companies
12:30 Leading teams through tough times
13:04 The leadership principles that actually work
14:48 Enabling teams vs micromanaging
15:02 Can everyone become a leader?
16:21 Career advice that changed everything
17:02 Make your work visible to leadership
18:52 When careers feel messy and chaotic
19:42 Why chaos early in your career is a good thing
20:22 Lessons in resilience from Ukrainian teams
22:51 The importance of understanding different cultures
24:05 Why learning never stops
25:02 The power of 30 minutes of daily learning
27:30 Why you shouldn’t compare your career to others
27:39 Inside Ciklum and what they do
31:01 The risks and opportunities of AI
32:09 Why now is the best time to join Ciklum
33:29 The invisible habits behind success
34:22 Stop worrying about what others think
36:23 Final thoughts
36:47 Prashant’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/
Duration:00:37:10
Alan Vallance, CEO at ICAEW: Career Advice From the Boss of the Accountancy World
3/26/2026
Episode Guest:
Alan Vallance is Chief Executive of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), a role he took up in April 2024. He is an ICAEW Chartered Accountant and an experienced leader of major professional bodies, having previously led the Chartered Insurance Institute, the Royal Institute of British Architects and held senior roles at the Law Society.
Episode Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:23 Meet Alan Vallance, CEO of ICAEW
1:03 The Power of Networking in Your Career
1:18 Why Networking Is Non-Negotiable
1:22 What Gets Alan Out of Bed (His Duvet Flip)
1:56 First Jobs and Early Career Lessons
3:08 The Importance of Teamwork Early On
3:46 Passion, Cars and Career Direction
5:07 Rejection vs Redirection
6:28 Why Getting a Job Is a Full-Time Job
7:02 Why Personalised Applications Matter
8:00 How to Be Authentic in Interviews
9:25 Biggest Job Application Mistakes
10:36 The Reality of Today’s Job Market
11:41 60,000 Applicants for 2,000 Jobs
12:25 Why You Shouldn’t Apply for Too Many Jobs
13:12 Lessons from EY and Becoming an Accountant
14:46 Accountancy vs AI: Is It Future Proof?
16:24 How AI Is Changing the Profession
18:21 Why Accountancy Is Still a Great Career
20:10 Moving to Australia and Global Opportunities
22:49 Leadership, Crisis and the Weather Bureau
24:23 The Power of Your Network
26:29 How to Grow Your Career the Right Way
27:54 What ICAEW Does and Why It Matters
30:22 Building Careers and Changing Lives
32:18 Alan’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/
Duration:00:34:08
Technology Director at Compare the Market: How to Launch Your Career in Tech in 2026
3/24/2026
Episode Guest
Andrew Hawkins is Technology Director at Compare the Market, where he focuses on building world-class engineering capability and helping teams embrace AI-led transformation. He is known for his thoughtful, people-first approach to leadership, with a strong emphasis on curiosity, impact and continuous learning.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:22 Andrew’s first job and early career lessons
2:14 Taking risks and stepping into the unknown
3:40 The failure that changed Andrew’s career
4:39 Failure is framing: a powerful mindset shift
5:34 Using failure to build resilience and confidence
6:06 Curiosity, open-mindedness and career growth
7:22 How to become more curious in your career
8:17 Dropping fear and leaning into new opportunities
9:20 Why AI feels like the early internet
10:04 How to think about AI in business and problem-solving
11:02 Why AI won’t replace engineers
12:27 Andrew’s non-linear career journey
13:09 Do what makes you happy and plays to your strengths
14:11 Why traditional career advice is broken
15:03 Transferable skills from unexpected jobs
15:37 Why having fun at work matters
16:31 Handling periods when you don’t enjoy your job
17:14 Self-awareness and taking responsibility for change
18:10 When to adapt vs when to move on
19:05 How Andrew joined Compare the Market
20:07 The role of AI in business transformation
21:04 Why company values matter when choosing a job
22:46 Top interview tips to stand out
24:07 Building rapport and being yourself in interviews
26:15 The best question to ask in a tech interview
27:34 How companies should approach AI transformation
29:20 Becoming a world-class engineering organisation
30:19 Why now is the most exciting time in tech
31:38 Lessons from the early internet boom
32:32 Will AI replace human conversations?
32:50 What keeps Andrew motivated at Compare the Market
34:11 Why technology is all about people
34:44 The best career advice Andrew follows
36:12 Andrew’s duvet flip: making an impact every day
37:05 Final thoughts and reflections
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/
Duration:00:37:28
Sharon Doherty, Chief People & Places Officer at Lloyds Banking Group: Leading One of the UK’s Biggest Banks
3/4/2026
Episode Guest:Sharon Dockerty is the Chief People and Places Officer at Lloyds Banking Group, leading people strategy, workplace experience, and culture across a workforce of around 80,000 colleagues. She’s built her career across major organisations including Heathrow and Vodafone, with a leadership style grounded in resilience, straight talking, and backing young people to thrive.Episode Chapters:0:00 Introduction1:18 What Gets You Out of Bed in the Morning2:07 Sharon’s First Job Selling Flowers at 103:24 Sharon’s Journey from Humble Beginnings3:49 The Four Chapters of Sharon’s Career5:05 Why Career Paths Are Rarely Planned6:39 Learning to Work Hard and Create Opportunity7:48 Advice for People in Career Chapter One8:13 How to Know if You’re Working with the Right People9:07 Choosing Positive People in Your Life11:41 What Sharon Would Do Differently Early in Her Career13:12 Building Heathrow Terminal 513:52 What It Means When Leaders Take a Risk on You15:10 Changing Safety Culture in Construction17:38 Lessons from Lifelong Learning19:31 Leading Through Crisis at Heathrow21:29 The Leadership Lesson That Changed Everything22:38 Handling Pressure and Protecting Your Team24:21 Are Young People Less Resilient Today26:12 Inside the Role of Chief People and Places Officer27:30 Leading 80,000 People at Lloyds Banking Group28:32 How Leaders Know if Culture Is Working29:37 From Leaving Home Young to Banking Leadership31:02 Why Apprenticeships Matter32:36 Apprenticeship Opportunities at Lloyds33:58 Why Tech and Data Are the Future34:27 Why Lloyds Banking Group Matters to the UK36:31 Helping Britain Prosper37:20 Advice for Young People About Money37:45 The Power of Saving Early41:51 Sharon’s Duvet FlipEpisode Partners:📊 Compare the MarketDiscover 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/4i53SvjDisclaimer: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-adviceIf you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/
Duration:00:42:52
Lloyd Mann, Global Executive Chef at Sodexo: How to Become a World Class Chef!
3/3/2026
Episode Guest:
Meet Lloyd Mann, VP of Culinary and Global Executive Chef at Sodexo, sharing his career journey and what get's him to flip the duvet in the morning, here on My 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/
Duration:00:36:05
Ryan Harvey, Head of AI Engineering at Compare the Market:
2/26/2026
Episode Guest
Ryan Harvey is Head of AI Engineering at Compare the Market, where he builds teams and capabilities to apply AI in ways that accelerate delivery and increase the impact engineers can have. He’s passionate about mentoring, practical problem-solving, and helping the next generation thrive as the world of work rapidly changes.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:27 From a Chip Shop in Cyprus to Tech Support
3:07 Automating the Job: Learning to Work Smarter
5:16 Where Ryan’s Love for Tech Began
8:27 What Makes a Great Software Engineer?
11:45 Learning the Hard Way: Early Career Mistakes
14:06 Cheers and Chores in Engineering
16:54 Startup Life vs Corporate Engineering
19:05 The Pressure of Mission-Critical Software
20:20 Why Compare the Market?
22:09 How to Stand Out in an Engineering Interview
24:04 The Power of Mentors (Inside and Outside Tech)
30:12 The Best Career Advice: Seek Forgiveness, Not Permission
32:23 The Future of Engineering in the AI Era
34:52 AI Won’t Replace Engineers – It Will Elevate Them
37:48 Are We Underestimating Junior Engineers?
41:46 How to Break into Software Engineering Today
43:43 What Gets Ryan Out of Bed in the Morning
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/
Duration:00:45:54
Apprentice Edition: 3 Journey's, 1 high performance career path
2/9/2026
Episode Guest
Sam Walley
Sam is a Commercial Graduate at Compare the Market, currently rotating through teams as part of the company’s graduate scheme. He’s passionate about taking opportunities outside his comfort zone and building a successful career in the commercial world.
Kelly Howes
Kelly is a Software Engineer Apprentice at Compare the Market, having transitioned into tech through coding bootcamps and hands-on learning. She’s passionate about inclusive workplaces, lifelong learning, and building software that makes a real impact.
George Owens
George is a Risk and Compliance Apprentice at Compare the Market, where he works across the business supporting governance, risk, and regulatory understanding. He enjoys the variety of the role and developing confidence by getting involved from day one.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Meet the apprentices and graduates at Compare the Market
0:28 First impressions of the interview process
1:27 Advice for young people applying for apprenticeships and grad roles
1:53 Welcome to My Duvet Flip with Sam, Kelly and George
2:06 Sam’s background and education journey
2:48 Stepping outside your comfort zone at university
3:38 Growing up on a dairy farm and learning hard work
4:29 Discovering commercial work and internships
5:43 Finding the Compare the Market graduate scheme
6:26 What the commercial graduate scheme looks like
6:38 Life two months into the grad role
7:23 Preparing properly for interviews
7:33 Skills learned so far and financial confidence
8:15 Sam’s first week at Compare the Market
8:52 Company-wide events and culture
11:42 Kelly’s non-traditional career journey
13:12 Running a dance school and learning leadership
14:47 Discovering coding during the pandemic
15:53 Applying for the software engineering apprenticeship
16:56 Feeling welcomed during the interview process
17:26 What a software engineer apprenticeship involves
18:46 Learning while working in a real tech team
19:23 Why apprenticeships are a powerful route into tech
19:39 Supportive and inclusive culture at Compare the Market
20:18 Kelly’s advice for future apprentices
21:04 George’s university experience and career thinking
22:14 Adapting to change during COVID
22:36 Finding the risk and compliance apprenticeship
23:16 What risk and compliance work really looks like
24:16 Surprises in the workplace and flat hierarchy
25:26 Learning by being trusted early
26:19 Personal development and the Talent Academy
26:44 Advice for anyone applying to Compare the Market
27:36 What gets Sam, Kelly and George out of bed each morning
28:34 Final thanks and closing thoughts
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/
Duration:00:28:54
Niamh Savill, Senior Solutions Architect at Halo: Breaking Into Tech Without a Tech Degree
2/5/2026
Episode Guest
Niamh Savill is a Senior Solutions Architect at Halo CRM, where she works across consultancy, product development, and customer solutions. With a background in languages, she brings a people-first, curious approach to solving complex technical challenges.
Episode Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
0:33 Meet Niamh and Why She Said Yes to My Duvet Flip
1:31 Niamh’s First Jobs and Early Lessons About Work
2:42 What Early Roles Teach You About Communication
3:10 How to Communicate Better at Work
3:52 Finding Halo Through Indeed
4:33 From Language Degree to a Tech Career
5:01 Niamh’s Journey at Halo CRM
6:49 Building Confidence and Putting Your Hand Up
7:47 Learning on the Job and Asking Questions
8:02 Niamh’s Best Day at Halo and Travelling for Work
8:58 What Halo Taught Niamh About Being Yourself
9:42 How Niamh Describes Halo’s Culture
10:34 Being a Woman in Tech
11:22 Advice to Young Women Applying for Tech Roles
12:08 Do You Need a Tech Background to Work in Tech?
12:58 A Day in the Life of a Senior Solutions Architect
13:51 Why Relationships Matter at Work
14:31 Dealing With Imposter Syndrome
15:36 Finding Best Friends at Work
16:27 Paul’s Leadership Style at Halo
17:44 Can Ambition and Drive Be Trained?
18:53 Niamh’s Advice to Anyone Applying to Halo
19:12 What Gets Niamh Out of Bed in the Morning
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/
Duration:00:19:51
Samantha Schlimper, Managing Director at Randstad Enterprise: How People Really Get Jobs (It’s Not Your CV)
2/3/2026
Episode Guest
Sam Schlimper is Managing Director at Randstad Enterprise, where she works with global organisations to redesign work, unlock human potential, and build future-ready talent strategies. With deep experience across recruitment, financial services, and advisory, Sam is passionate about creating meaningful work that energises people and organisations.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:23 What gives you energy and what drains it at work
1:17 Sam’s duvet flip and why self-reflection matters
2:09 First job lessons and learning what you don’t want to do
3:04 Why trying things is essential early in your career
3:39 How Sam fell into recruitment and talent without a plan
4:12 Confidence, training, and learning on the job
4:46 Building confidence in a hybrid and remote world
5:47 Why job descriptions don’t reflect how work really happens
6:33 Do remote workers really miss out on promotions?
7:39 How to know who you are (and why it’s a lifelong job)
8:16 Being good at something that slowly drains you
9:10 Why fun, energy, and people keep you in a job
10:05 What makes a great recruiter today
11:40 How people really get jobs beyond their CV
12:44 Understanding human potential at its core
14:13 Simple ways to identify your own potential
15:36 Are you stuck in the ‘frozen middle’?
16:29 What it feels like when work slowly erodes you
17:36 Mucky ducks and how bad culture spreads
18:57 What to do if you are the mucky duck
20:04 Knowing when it’s time to leave an environment
22:13 Why human connection matters more than ever
23:14 AI, young people, and the future of work
24:45 Why early careers need new, non-traditional routes
25:46 The beehive analogy and problem-solving talent
26:47 Why AI should be treated like a colleague, not a tool
28:37 The danger of cognitively offloading your thinking
30:08 How to work with AI without losing your edge
32:43 Psychological safety and AI adoption at work
35:40 Confidence, power, and who embraces AI first
38:38 Lessons from Sam’s time at Barclays
40:33 What Randstad Enterprise does and why Sam loves her work
43:49 The red folder quick-fire questions
48:24 Sam’s duvet flip and what really gets her out of bed
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/
Duration:00:49:33
Pete Harris, President at Pipedrive: How to Find Your Purpose (Even at 35,000 Feet)
1/29/2026
Episode Guest
Pete Harris is the President at Pipedrive, with a career spanning from auditing at Deloitte to global leadership. Known for his grounded wisdom and purpose-driven mindset, Pete brings clarity and compassion to every room he walks into - or in Pete's case, runs into!
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:55 Meet Pete Harris – President at Pipedrive
3:00 The Flight That Changed Everything
6:20 Why Pete Turned Down Partnership at Deloitte
9:00 Discovering Your Purpose in Life and Work
12:15 Pete’s Hierarchy of Needs
15:10 From Corporate Climb to Courageous Quit
18:00 The Power of Support: Marriage, Mentors & Mindset
21:30 Resigning With Grace and Class
24:00 Pete’s Ironman: Testing Limits and Finding Clarity
28:00 What Endurance Taught Pete About Insecurity and Self
31:10 Talking Money: Value, Confidence & Childhood Habits
35:00 From Seven-Year-Old Saver to Global Leader
38:20 Why Your Job Title Isn’t Who You Are
41:00 What Real Wealth Looks Like (And It’s Not Money)
44:15 Time, Presence, and the 18 Christmas Rule
47:00 Leadership, Listening and Talking Last
50:00 The Power of Diversity and Integrity at Work
53:00 Pete on Taylor Swift, Energy Vampires & the A-Team
56:00 Final Reflections and Pete’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/
Duration:00:58:42
Alex Glover, Managing Director, Programmatic at Brainlabs: What Nobody Tells You About Making It in Marketing
1/27/2026
Episode Guest
Alex Glover is Managing Director of Programmatic at Brainlabs, where he leads global innovation in data-driven advertising. His passion for programmatic strategy and graduate development is helping shape the next generation of media talent.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:12 Meet Alex Glover, MD of Programmatic at Brainlabs
0:40 The job Alex nearly took (and why he didn’t)
1:48 Discovering advertising through curiosity
3:04 Early experiments with websites and Google Ads
4:16 The career-changing advice Alex got from his dad
5:06 Startup grind: no playbook, just problem solving
6:10 From tiny clients to Mediacom’s biggest accounts
7:33 Why Alex couldn’t stay away from programmatic
8:48 Taking a bet on himself at Brainlabs
10:00 The truth about programmatic advertising
12:05 Advertising’s future: Netflix, Spotify, and beyond
13:42 Inside the Brainlabs grad scheme in Buenos Aires
15:37 How moving to Argentina can kickstart your career
17:23 What makes someone thrive in programmatic?
19:08 Building confidence, then passion
21:07 Jack and Alex on being obsessed with your craft
22:45 Getting promoted: it’s not just about extra projects
24:10 How to stand out in your first job in media
26:04 Why reporting taught Alex the most about marketing
27:18 When Alex felt like a fraud (and what happened next)
29:12 What it’s really like working at Brainlabs
31:20 Why Brainlabs refuses to sell to a holding company
32:46 The culture of innovation and automation at Brainlabs
34:05 How AI is being used by grads at Brainlabs
35:24 “If you do it three times, automate it”
36:48 The one mindset shift every grad needs to hear
38:04 Chapter 1 of Alex’s career: “Working it out”
39:02 Most unexpected lesson from a ‘boring’ task
40:00 When Alex truly felt imposter syndrome
41:12 The job that led to Patagonia
42:00 Jack’s final question: What’s your duvet flip?
43:38 Why achievement, not titles, gets Alex up in the morning
44:30 Final reflections and thank yous
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/
Duration:00:45:29
Donna Whitehead, CEO at University of Brighton: Can Grit, Humour and a Chicken Shop Get You to the Top?
1/22/2026
Episode Guest
Donna Whitehead is the Vice Chancellor and CEO of the University of Brighton. A proud working-class leader from Hartlepool, Donna brings a bold, purpose-driven vision to higher education.
Episode Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
1:22 From Council Estate to CEO
2:59 Donna’s First Job: Paper Round Hustle
4:23 Learning Discipline and Drive
6:01 “Shy Bairns Get Nowt”: Grit as a Mindset
7:08 Pride in Her Hartlepool Roots
8:42 Imposter Syndrome and Black Tie Moments
10:53 Getting Sacked and Bouncing Back
12:08 The Life Event That Changed Everything
13:33 Failing College, Then Trying Again
14:59 Studying Law and Seeing a Bigger World
16:33 From No Map to Leading a University
17:44 Why Education Became Her Purpose
19:06 What a University CEO Really Does
20:45 Brighton’s 10-Year Vision: Equity & Enterprise
22:31 A Day in the Life of Donna Whitehead
24:35 What Brighton Has Taught Her About Life
26:02 Never Compromise Your Values
27:07 Deputy CEO vs CEO: The Real Difference
28:31 What Donna Would Study Today
29:40 Why Choose University of Brighton?
30:55 Careers in Education: Donna’s Call to Action
32:07 Quickfire Round: Mascots, Boss Phrases & Icons
34:10 Donna’s Message to Students, CEOs & the World
35:47 Donna’s Duvet Flip – What Gets Her Up
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/
Duration:00:37:38
Andrew Leaver, CEO of Brand Partnership Group: What No One Tells You About Scaling a Business
1/13/2026
Episode Guest
Andrew Lever is the Co-Founder and CEO of Brand Partnership Group, a leader in brand-focused sales and marketing services. With a career spanning Unilever, Coca-Cola, and Samsung, Andrew brings calm leadership and consistent growth to every organisation he touches.
Episode Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
0:41 Why Andrew was one of the show’s first believers
2:03 The power of consistency in careers and partnerships
3:00 Andrew’s first job and how he became a CEO
5:00 From Unilever to Paris — learning fast abroad
7:40 Facing fears: new languages, new countries
10:00 Returning for a dream role at Coca-Cola
12:00 What Coke taught Andrew about human connection
14:00 Brand loyalty and leadership lessons
15:20 How to actually build consistency
17:00 Calm leadership through change and chaos
19:00 Navigating COVID and moving fast as a business
21:00 Transforming Brand Partnership Group from the inside
23:00 Learning from mistakes and knowing when to pivot
25:00 Real partnership vs. transactional relationships
27:00 Andrew’s rule if he was Minister of Partnerships
28:30 What Brand Partnership Group actually does
30:00 How Blue Square supports Samsung, HP & SharkNinja
32:30 Training, retail support, and in-home repair
34:00 Crew Live: From West End to global brand activations
36:00 Rise: Engineering growth with data and insight
37:45 A teaser for the next agency in the group
38:30 Why youth opportunity is at the heart of BPG
40:30 Supporting confidence, skills and mental resilience
42:30 Apprenticeships and building the next generation
44:00 Turning BPG into a talent pipeline for global brands
45:20 Living company values — not just posting them
46:50 The truth about culture and consistency
48:10 Quick-fire: Remarkable notebooks & lion mascots
49:20 The strangest pitch Andrew ever received
50:15 Dreaming up a youth-focused business with Jack
51:00 The motto Andrew would put on a Piccadilly billboard
52:00 The brand Andrew wishes would call tomorrow
53:00 Reflecting on friendship, support, and doing good
54:30 Andrew’s evolved duvet flip: From chasing to creating
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/
Duration:01:03:31
CEO at Pizza Express: From Paper Rounds to the Boardroom
1/6/2026
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/
Duration:00:36:55
General Manager at Mars Pet Nutrition:
12/18/2025
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/
Duration:00:35:18
Chief Customer Officer at Compare the Market:
12/9/2025
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/
Duration:00:39:10
Meet the Halo People Supporting to Make Suffolk the UK’s Startup Hotspot through Grad Schemes
12/2/2025
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/
Duration:00:26:56
Tim Mason, CEO at Eagle Eye: Top 5 Secrets on How to Get to the Top Floor in Retail
11/27/2025
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/
Duration:00:41:04
Matt Callaghan, COO at easyJet Holidays: From 5,000 Hotels to 1 Million Customers
11/13/2025
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/
Duration:00:41:33
Sam Sims, CEO at National Numeracy: The Volunteer Transforming a Nation’s Confidence with Numbers
11/11/2025
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/
Duration:00:32:27