My Duvet Flip by Jackson Parsons

Check out the latest careers at Compare the Market:

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Episode Guest

Ursula Gibbs, Chief Commercial Officer, Compare the Market meets with Jack Parsons (Jackson) UK's Chief Youth Officer.TimestampsEpisode Partner

Compare the Market simplifies the search for the best deals in insurance, energy, and more, making savings accessible to everyone. As a vital part of our team, you'll help consumers make informed decisions through a leading comparison service. At Compare the Market, you're encouraged to innovate, offering you the opportunity to influence the future of comparison shopping.

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/

Check out the latest careers at easyJet:

https://bit.ly/3yCRlNS

Episode Guest

Julie Booth, COO at NEC Software Solutions, meets with Jack Parsons (Jackson) UK's Chief Youth Officer.

Episode Timestamps

Episode Partner

easyJet streamlines affordable travel for all, with every role crucial in connecting millions via Europe's top airline network. With an innovative culture, easyJet empowers you to shape travel's future.

Disclaimer

The content provided on My 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 My 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*

Paul Hamilton, CEO & Founder of Halo, meets with Jack Parsons, UK's Chief Youth Officer.Paul Hamilton is the Founder & CEO of Halo Service Solutions, the UK’s fastest-growing software company, based in Stowmarket, Suffolk. With a passion for innovation and a vision to transform workplace culture, Paul has pioneered The Halo Way—a groundbreaking approach that eliminates traditional hierarchies, promotes democratic work practices, empowers self-managing teams, and prioritises both customer demand and employee happiness.

Under Paul’s leadership, Halo has evolved from a bedroom start-up into a global leader in service management software, becoming the world’s first purebred unicorn. A champion of sustainable growth, Paul has written into contracts that Halo remains privately owned—an uncommon approach in the industry—allowing the company to innovate freely and remain true to its values.

Paul inspires others to think differently about leadership, culture, and success and is dedicated to not only changing the world of work, but changing the way the world works.*Episode Timestamps*

01:40 – What is bootstrapping for those tuning in?

02:06 – Why did you decide to bootstrap your business?

03:40 – Would you say your career has been bootstrapped too?

04:23 – How did growing up in Scotland shape your character?

06:48 – You had a near-death experience as a child—has that influenced your resilience?

12:04 – How can young people build self-belief in their own potential?

13:59 – What does it mean to be a "unicorn" in the business world?

16:00 – How do you know when your software has reached product-market fit?

19:27 – Has coding become easier or more difficult over time?

26:03 – What is the secret formula behind Halo’s success?

31:02 – Why have you chosen a 100% in-office working policy?

37:00 – Do you analyze competitors?

39:14 – What’s the best way to gather feedback to grow a business?

45:16 – What has been your biggest lesson as an entrepreneur?

52:09 – How do you assess cultural fit when hiring new talent?

55:30 – What gets you out of bed in the morning—what is your “duvet flip”?*Episode Partner*

Founded in 1994, with two decades of purely organic, product-led growth, Halo is just a step away from being the world's first purebred unicorn.

With a steady 100% yearly growth and a commitment to refrain from any mergers, acquisitions, or private equity deals on a rolling 10-year period, we are on track to become the world's first fully bootstrapped billion-dollar business.

Halo Service Solutions provides service desk software that can be installed on premise or in the cloud. With built-in ITIL best practices, Halo Service Solutions is relied upon in over 40 countries to provide a platform, not only for IT teams, but for use across multiple departments. Organisations can scale their IT support with confidence, knowing that Halo Service Solutions has 20+ years of experience and is trusted by multiple FTSE 100 companies.

*Disclaimer*The content provided on My 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 My 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/

Check out CIPP’s National Apprenticeship Week Event here:

https://www.cipp.org.uk/event/national-apprenticeship-week--careers-in-payroll-via-apprenticeships.html

Episode Guest

Natasha Taylor, Consultancy Relationship Lead at CIPP, and Bella Cox, Payroll and Pensions Manager at Cox & Co Payroll Solutions, meet with Jack Parsons (Jackson) UK's Chief Youth Officer.

Episode Timestamps

00:07 – What is National Apprenticeship Week, and why is it important?

00:48 – What did you do to stand out and secure your apprenticeship?

02:05 – How did your career journey start, and what was your first job?

03:30 – How can young people stand out when applying for jobs?

04:49 – How did your first job shape your career path?

06:40 – Why did you decide that college wasn’t for you?

07:51 – What should someone do if they feel like quitting college or changing direction?

08:39 – How do you research a company before applying for a job or apprenticeship?

10:33 – How can reaching out to a hiring manager help your job application?

13:11 – What is the best way to apply for an apprenticeship?

14:54 – What actually is an apprenticeship, and how does it work?

16:03 – Can you go to university and do an apprenticeship at the same time?

18:02 – Is an apprenticeship only for young people, or can you start one later in life?

22:05 – Why is payroll such an important and misunderstood industry?

27:00 – How does payroll impact financial well-being and job satisfaction?

32:04 – What skills do you develop while working in payroll that others might not expect?

36:02 – Can an apprenticeship lead to a master's degree or senior leadership roles?

43:38 – What gets you out of bed in the morning—what is your “duvet flip”?

Episode Partner

The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) is the UK’s leading institute for payroll, pensions, and reward professionals. With over 9,500 members, the CIPP is dedicated to raising the profile of payroll across UK businesses through top-tier education, compliance support, and government representation. Recognized as the best overall UK association in 2021 and a top employer in 2022, the CIPP is committed to excellence and professionalism in the industry.

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/

Check out the latest careers at easyJet:https://bit.ly/3yCRlNS

Episode Guest

Margaret Jobling, CMO of NatWest meets with Jack Parsons (Jackson) UK's Chief Youth Officer.

Timestamps

00:05 – What are the three choices you have in any situation?

Episode Partner

easyJet streamlines affordable travel for all, with every role crucial in connecting millions via Europe's top airline network. With an innovative culture, easyJet empowers you to shape travel's future.

Disclaimer

The content provided on My 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 My 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

Suki Sandhu, Founder of INvolve and Audeliss meets with Jack Parsons, UK's Chief Youth Officer.

Meet Suki Sandhu OBE – a trailblazer in the diversity and executive search scene for over 20 years. Suki isn't just about finding top talent; he's passionate about making sure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed in their careers. Back in 2011, Suki founded Audeliss, a global executive search firm with a mission. Audeliss levels the playing field giving women, people of color, LGBTQ+ and other diverse candidates a fair shot at executive and board roles.

Episode Timestamps

Episode Partner

INvolve is a consultancy and global network that enables leaders and change makers to build more successful and empowering organizations where everyone can thrive and belong. Find out more at https://www.involvepeople.org/

Audeliss is an executive search firm specialising in diversity that is championing change from leadership level. Dedicated to levelling the playing field for diverse senior level talent, we challenge businesses to think more broadly about the leaders they are recruiting, always ensuring that talent comes before background. Find out more at www.Audeliss.com

Disclaimer

The content provided on My 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 My 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/

Check out Verian Group:

https://www.veriangroup.com/

Episode Guest

Craig Watkins, CEO at Verian Group meets with Jack Parsons (Jackson) UK's Chief Youth Officer.

Craig Watkins is the CEO of Verian UK, a leading organisation specialising in understanding human behaviour to drive data-driven insights and improve public policymaking. With over 30 years of experience in the public sector, Craig leads Verian's world-class research team to deliver impactful solutions that change lives and inform decision-making globally. Verian's work focuses on using evidence and insights to tackle societal challenges and power decisions that transform communities.

Episode Timestamps

0:00 - What’s the purpose of this discussion, and who is Craig Watkins?(Introduction)
2:18 - What should you do if you don’t know what you want in life?
2:25 - How can reflecting on your experiences guide your journey?
2:40 - What makes a work experience truly fulfilling?
3:05 - Why is it important to bring your authentic self to work?
5:11 - What advice does Craig give to those who feel they need to mask themselves?
6:19 - How can workplaces support individuals with neurodiversities?
8:17 - When is adapting necessary, and how do you find balance?
9:37 - How should you choose roles that align with your true self?
16:20 - How do you discover what you truly want to do in life?
18:40 - What can young people learn from reflecting on their successes and challenges?
20:49 - How can you successfully adapt to a new career or environment?
26:33 - Why is being mildly uncomfortable crucial for growth?
28:46 - How can crises lead to valuable learning opportunities?
31:40 - How do you keep your ambitions alive while adapting to challenges?
35:49 - What motivates Craig Watkins to embrace each new day?
37:00 - Why is productivity and engagement key for personal development?
38:11 - How does food, culture, and memory shape personal and professional connections?

Episode Partner

Verian is a global leader in research, evaluation, and communications, providing data-driven insights to improve public policy and tackle societal challenges. It operates across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the US, empowering impactful decisions worldwide.

*Disclaimer*

The content provided on My 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 My 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/

Check out MadeYou:

https://madeyou.co.uk/

Episode Guest

Meet Luke Todd, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MadeYou Ltd.

Luke Todd, Founder and CEO of MadeYou, established the company in 2014 and has since led its growth and expansion into leadership training, executive coaching, employer branding, and 360-degree feedback, serving clients across Europe and internationally. As a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach with over 25 years of experience, Luke brings a wealth of expertise in customer experience, as well as operational management across national and international SMEs. He has successfully founded and managed service, sales, technical support, RFP, design, and marketing teams. To maintain the focus and energy of learners, Luke is dedicated to building strong rapport, consistently applying real-world knowledge and experience to any topic or challenge. His extensive business background allows him to bring relatability and practicality to every learning environment.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 Defining Hard Work10:56 The Chaos of Entrepreneurship20:18 Education System Challenges23:08 Empowering Young Minds Through Leadership29:13 The Birth and Evolution of MadeU38:10 The Importance of Continuous Learning43:04 The Drive Behind Entrepreneurship

Episode Partner

Founded in 2014, MadeYou has become a trusted name in leadership development and business coaching, particularly within the iGaming industry. Known for its hands-on, practical approach, MadeYou ensures that its insights and strategies are rooted in real-world business experience. Rather than delivering abstract theories, the close-knit team, including four client-facing coaches and trainers, helps clients not just learn but implement strategies that drive measurable business success.

As the world transitioned online during the pandemic, MadeYou expanded its reach globally, serving clients across Europe, the UK, the Philippines, America, and Japan. The company offers a wide array of services, including leadership training, executive coaching, employer branding, and 360-degree feedback. Whether it’s strengthening leadership at the executive level or supporting individual career progression, MadeYou is committed to driving business success by focusing on people development.

The content provided on My 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 My 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.

Check out the latest careers at easyJet:

Episode Guest

Paula Walsh, Chair of Arup meets with Jack Parsons (Jackson) UK's Chief Youth Officer.

Timestamps

0:00 What’s the best advice for someone struggling to find their passion?

0:19 Why are place and people important in choosing a career?

0:30 Who is Paula Walsh, and what’s her career background?

0:43 Why is engineering described as a mix of creation and problem-solving?

0:55 How does it feel to see the tangible results of your engineering work?

1:02 Where are we now in terms of women in engineering?

1:22 What’s a life lesson that helps navigate career challenges?

2:00 What exactly does an engineer do?

3:33 How did a crazy physics teacher inspire a career in engineering?

5:12 What’s the role of curiosity in finding the right career path?

7:48 How can young people assess whether a workplace or project is right for them?

9:23 Why is honesty crucial in workplace interactions and decision-making?

12:48 How can young professionals identify and work with mentors effectively?

15:00 Does the construction industry naturally foster honesty compared to other fields?

18:50 Why is commercial awareness vital for engineers and technologists?

26:31 What steps is the industry taking to improve diversity and inclusion?

28:03 How can women address challenges and thrive in male-dominated industries?

43:53 What motivates leaders like Paula to keep striving in their careers?

Episode Partner

easyJet streamlines affordable travel for all, with every role crucial in connecting millions via Europe's top airline network.

With an innovative culture, easyJet empowers you to shape travel's future.

Disclaimer

The content provided on My 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 My 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/

Check out the latest careers at Weatherbys: 

https://www.weatherbys.co.uk/careers

Episode Guest

Meet Russell Ferris, CEO at Weatherbys Ltd.

Russell Ferris is Chief Executive Officer of Weatherbys Ltd, one of the most renowned organisations in the worlds of horse racing, breeding and agri-genomics.

With over 20 years senior management & directorial experience, Russell joined Weatherbys in 2016 from Sky Sports Racing channel At The Races. Previous to this he was Managing Director of Limerick Racecourse.

Russell has overseen significant growth and transformation at Weatherbys, embracing innovative ways of working coupled with an International commercial strategy.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 The Importance of Early Experience05:04 Navigating Feedback and Imposter Syndrome10:49 Respecting Diverse Perspectives in the Workplace16:30 The Racing and Breeding Industry Overview21:32 Highs and Lows of the Racing Industry27:35 Future of Racing: Challenges and Opportunities

Episode Partner

Weatherbys is one of the most renowned organisations in global sport, having been at the heart of horse racing & breeding since 1770.

A seventh-generation family company, Weatherbys delivers an extensive range of professional services across racing and breeding administration, compliance, racecourse and raceday marketing, bloodstock services, data, digital software solutions, animal genomics and banking & finance

The content provided on My 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 My 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.