My Duvet Flip by Jackson Parsons

Episode Guest:

Matthew Wragg is the CEO at Gattaca Plc. Parent company to Matchtech, Infosec People and Gattaca Projects , where he’s spent over two decades rising through 12 roles to lead the company. Known for his people-first approach and belief in learning through hard graft, Matthew brings deep insight into recruitment, leadership, and resilience.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:20 Matthew’s first job and “get the hell out if it’s not learning” mindset

4:10 From door‑to‑door sales to recruitment: the pivot

7:05 What “hard graft” really means and why it matters

10:22 The role of emotional intelligence in recruitment

13:35 How recruitment has stayed the same — and what’s changed

16:40 Building a team game, not just a desk/mini‑business

19:12 The power of curiosity: “everybody knows something you don’t”

22:30 What makes a great recruiter and what the industry gets wrong

25:45 Inside Gattaca PLC: culture, identity & client‑candidate impact

29:10 Matthew’s “duvet‑flip” moment: what wakes him up in the morning

32:05 Financial decisions, bold steps & money tips

35:20 Career reflections: loyalty, learning and making yourself redundant

38:00 Closing thoughts & take‑aways

Episode Partners:

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Tanuja Randery is the Managing Director for Amazon Web Services (AWS) in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. A passionate advocate for digital skills and inclusive leadership, she has helped train over 31 million learners globally.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:20 From Early Jobs to Self‑Discovery

3:50 Breaking Into McKinsey: Network & Opportunity

6:15 Doing Excellent Work & Beyond the Ask

8:40 The Partnership Snub: Atlanta & Betrayal

11:10 Reflection: What Was Missing

13:00 Connecting What + How in Leadership

15:20 Resilience: Balance, Energy & the 40‑40‑20 Rule

17:45 Building Your “Board”: Sponsors, Mentors & Squad

20:10 Feedback Fear: Receiving, Unpacking, Acting

22:40 Skills, Tech & Digital Futures

25:10 Training 31M Learners & AWS Impact

27:30 What Gets Me Out of Bed: Her “Duvet Flip”

29:00 Final Reflections & Close

Episode Partners

Hg Foundation

Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.

https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest

Penny Taylor is the HR Director at Compare the Market, where she leads with a passion for inclusivity, kindness, and commercial impact. Her career journey spans retail, travel, and people leadership, grounded in real-world grit and deep empathy.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction & Why This Chat Matters

1:15 Penny’s Early Years & Academic Setbacks

3:10 The “Floater” Role — Learning Every Part of a Business

5:00 First Jobs, Travel & Finding Direction

7:25 Transition Into the Corporate World

9:10 Discovering HR: From Regional Manager to People Leader

11:30 The Heart of HR: Doing the Right Thing with Kindness

13:45 How to Be Fair, Inclusive & Honest in HR

15:50 Dealing with Mistakes, Taking Responsibility & Resilience

18:00 Money Lessons: Worst Regrets & Pension Tips

20:10 What Makes a Great HR Professional

22:00 Embracing AI: How She Uses Tech in HR Today

24:10 What Gets Her Out of Bed: The Duvet Flip

25:30 Final Reflections & Advice

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Matt Madrigal is the Chief Technology Officer at Pinterest, where he leads product management, engineering, and infrastructure for the platform. With a career spanning eBay, Google, and Fanatics, Matt is a seasoned e-commerce and tech leader passionate about building positive, high-impact user experiences.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

1:23 From Chico to Pizza Shop: Matt’s First Job

3:45 Lessons in Work Ethic from Immigrant Parents

5:32 What Hard Work Really Means

8:01 The Cheers and Chores Philosophy

10:46 Breaking into Tech & Early Career Moves

13:30 Surviving the Dot-Com Boom

15:58 Joining eBay and Learning at Scale

19:15 Why Shopping & E-Commerce Hooked Matt

21:40 Choosing Managers vs. Missions

24:01 The Truth About AI & Early Career Jobs

27:18 What Makes a Great Software Engineer

30:12 The Red Flags in Tech Talent

32:14 Key Lessons from Google

35:17 Undoing Old Habits to Grow

37:20 Why Matt Said Yes to Pinterest

39:34 What Sets Pinterest Apart

42:01 Using Pinterest to Inspire Youth Spaces

44:00 Why Pinterest Is a Great Place to Work

46:19 Matt’s Biggest Life Lessons

48:35 Matt’s Duvet Flip: Solving Hard Problems with Great People

Episode Partners

Hg Foundation

Together with The Hg Foundation, we’re on a mission to motivate and inspire young people like you to explore, or even start a career in technology through inspirational talks from industry.

https://bit.ly/4mwzRGs

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Graham Rogers

Graham Rogers is the Co-CEO of Homes for Students, bringing a decade of leadership experience in student accommodation and a passion for a people-first culture.

Kate Forester

Kate Forester is the Managing Director at Homes for Students, known for her straight-talking leadership style, focus on team development, and deep commitment to delivering on promises.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:41 Meet Kate & Graham — Double Trouble

1:46 First Jobs: Paper Rounds & Waitressing

4:00 Early Money Lessons & Family Motivation

5:30 Advice for Young People Starting Out

8:00 How to Know When a Job Isn’t for You

10:35 From Waitressing to Banking to Leadership

13:20 Presence, Imposter Syndrome & Tangible Feedback

16:45 Independence & Grit in the Workplace

20:15 Climbing the Career Ladder the Right Way

23:05 Resilience: Why Young People Need More of It

26:15 Giving Feedback Without Fear

29:05 The Story Behind Homes for Students

32:00 How You Leave a Job Matters

35:15 Starting a Business: The Risks & Real Talk

38:00 Leadership Lessons from the Early Days

41:00 Building a People-First Culture

43:00 Dealing with Mucky Ducks in Business

45:00 Learning the Hard Way — Personal Reflections

47:30 What's Next for Homes for Students

49:00 Kate & Graham’s Duvet Flip

Episode Partners

📊 Compare the Market

Discover how you can make a difference at Compare the Market, the company behind one of the UK’s most popular comparison sites. From tech and data to marketing and operations, they’re on a mission to simplify decisions for millions.

https://bit.ly/4i53Svj

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Llorayah Timbou Faucher is a Degree Apprentice at Marks & Spencer who started as a quiet Christmas temp and is now inspiring future leaders. Her story is one of confidence, curiosity, and creating memorable moments for customers and colleagues alike.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:47 Starting as a Christmas Temp at 18

2:05 Nervous Beginnings & Not Knowing the Ropes

3:12 Learning the Power of “Just Ask”

4:30 From Quiet to Confident: Finding Her Voice

6:10 Falling in Love with Retail

7:45 When M&S Went from Job to Dream

9:10 Speaking Up as a Young Leader

10:35 Managing Dyslexia & Team Briefs

12:00 What Retail Teaches You About Life

13:30 Building Real Relationships at Work

14:55 The Role of Mentors in Her Journey

16:10 “You Can Do Anything, But Not Everything”

17:30 Learning to Prioritise & Focus

18:50 From Learner to Leader: Coaching Others

20:10 Inside the Degree Apprentice Programme

21:35 Advice for Future Christmas Temps

23:00 Llorayah’s Duvet Flip — Making People’s Day

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Kayte Houghton is the Payroll Lead at Marks & Spencer, where she’s risen from admin assistant to leading payroll for 65,000+ colleagues. A champion of resilience, Kayte’s journey from council house to career leadership shows what’s possible when passion meets opportunity.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:49 Kayte’s Early Life as a Teen Mum

2:15 Living on Benefits & Hitting Rock Bottom

3:40 The Courage to Visit the Job Centre

4:50 Discovering the Marks & Start Programme

6:10 Finding a Buzz in Admin Work

7:30 Gaining Confidence from Small Wins

8:45 Getting the Life-Changing Phone Call

10:10 Starting Her First Role at M&S

11:40 Learning the Power of Supportive Managers

13:00 Climbing from Admin to Team Leader

14:35 Reclaiming the Word “Ambitious”

16:00 How M&S Feels Like Family

17:20 Seeking Mentors & Giving Back

18:45 Imposter Syndrome & Belonging

20:00 Falling into Payroll — and Loving It

21:15 Why Empathy Matters When Handling Pay

23:10 From Post Room to Payroll Lead

24:30 Kayte’s Duvet Flip — Personal Pride & Identity

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Kate Goolnik is a Food Business Graduate at Marks & Spencer with a passion for how food gets from supplier to shelf. From night shifts in nightclubs to store openings and sandwich logistics, Kate’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and drive.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:48 Starting Out in Nightclubs During Uni

2:15 Learning to Work With Different People

3:20 The Supermarket Fascination

4:30 From Store Launch to Grad Scheme

6:10 Finding a Sponsor Who Opened Doors

7:55 “It’s Okay Not to Know” — Career Advice

9:40 Why M&S Just Felt Right

11:05 Primary School Doubts & Dyslexia Discovery

12:55 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

14:30 Learning to Flip Your Mindset

15:40 Why Kate Loves M&S Culture

17:10 The Great Sandwich Challenge — A Lesson in Resilience

19:00 Learning from Mistakes and Supporting Others

20:20 Kate’s Duvet Flip — Why She Gets Up Every Day

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Alice Grennan is a Fashion, Home & Beauty Product Graduate at Marks & Spencer, where she’s building a multifaceted retail career. From lava flows to sustainable fashion, Alice’s squiggly career path is powered by passion, resilience, and confidence.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:48 Alice’s First Job at 13 — The £5 Paper Round

2:05 Hustling for Hospitality Roles

3:15 How Early Jobs Built Resilience

4:30 From Geography to Fashion — A Career Reroute

6:10 Falling in Love with Sustainable Style

7:45 Choosing M&S Over Another Grad Job

9:15 What It’s Like Working in Retail Over Christmas

11:00 From Shop Floor to Head Office — Seeing It All

12:40 Why Every Grad Should Start in Store

14:05 The Power of Rotations at M&S

15:45 Marketing, Buying & Plan A — Her Favourite Roles

18:00 Learning from Mentors, Leaders & Experience

19:30 Building Confidence in the Corporate World

21:00 Alice’s Duvet Flip — Why She Shows Up Every Day

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/

Episode Guest:

Jhorvis Tyrell is a Warehouse Operative at Marks & Spencer who started through the Prince’s Trust programme. From overcoming nerves to becoming a confident team player, he’s passionate about helping customers get their orders on time — every time.

Episode Timestamps:

0:00 Introduction

0:50 Meeting M&S Through the Prince’s Trust

1:45 First Impressions of the Warehouse

2:30 How Jhorvis Handled His Nerves

3:15 Becoming a Picker — What the Role Involves

4:40 Confidence, Colleagues & Community

6:00 “Don’t Give Up” — Advice for Job Seekers

7:15 Supporting His Mum Through Work

8:20 Learning Automation Skills

9:45 Why M&S Feels Like a Family

11:00 What It’s Like Working in the Warehouse

12:20 Favourite Roles: Picking vs Automation

13:30 Helping New Starters Succeed

14:30 Jhorvis’ Duvet Flip — Why He Gets Up Each Day

16:00 Final Thoughts on Confidence, Mentors & Pride in the Job

Episode Partners

M&S

M&S is a trusted global retailer, committed to quality, value, and innovation. For over a century, it has set industry standards by doing the right thing and embracing change. With 65,000 colleagues serving 32 million customers worldwide, M&S places quality at the heart of everything it does.

https://bit.ly/4mVHfLO

Disclaimer:

The content provided on Duvet Flip is for informational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. The views expressed by hosts, guests, brands or contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the show's producers, sponsors, or affiliates. The information shared is not a substitute for professional advice, including but not limited to career counseling, financial guidance, legal consultation, or mental health support.

Listeners and viewers are responsible for their own decisions and actions based on the content provided, and Duvet Flip assumes no liability for any outcomes resulting from reliance on the information shared. By engaging with the show, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

If you’re struggling with debt, trusted advice and free support can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

If you’re struggling with mental health of any kind, you can find free support here: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/