The APositive Insights podcast is all about picking the brains of pioneering recruitment entrepreneurs and suppliers in a relaxed and fun environment, bringing nuggets of gold to anyone thinking of going it on their own or scaling.
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Tom Pammenter, Founder of Frame25, shares his insights on the growing shift toward freelance and independent talent, exploring how flexible workforce models are changing recruitment and creating new opportunities for agencies to diversify revenue through project-based talent solutions.
In this episode of APositive Insights, Sean Anderson from Hoxo shares what’s really shaping the next generation of recruitment. From building a personal brand that actually drives opportunities, to using AI tools like ChatGPT the right way, Sean breaks down the strategies recruiters need to stay ahead without losing the human touch.
Darren Cottrell speaks with Khanh Pham from Bullhorn about what recruitment data is revealing as the industry heads into 2026. Drawing on Bullhorn’s GRID Talent Trends, they explore shifting candidate expectations, the growing impact of AI, and how leading agencies are using automation to improve candidate experience, reclaim recruiter time, and strengthen relationships.
Kamal Founder Guy Day joins us to unpack how real-time data is reshaping recruitment and labour hire. We explore why he built Kamal, the metrics that truly matter, and the early warning signs agency leaders often miss. Guy also shares what future-ready firms will track next and his key advice for sustainable growth. A must-listen for recruitment leaders wanting clearer data and a competitive edge.
Darren Cottrell is joined by Kim Seeling Smith, a visionary people-and-culture architect renowned for transforming workforces through bold strategic thinking, human-centred leadership, and impactful organisational design. In this episode, we unpack the disruptions transforming recruitment. From AI and talent shifts to reimagined leadership. Hear how her 9 Keys can help agencies stay agile, human, and future-proof for 2035 and beyond.
Compliance is not just a box to tick. Done well, it can become a powerful competitive advantage. In this episode of APositive Insights, Darren Cottrell sits down with Tania Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of WorkPro, to explore how embedding compliance into your DNA from day one sets agencies up for sustainable growth. Tania shares insights on scaling smart, reducing risk, and using automation to streamline onboarding and screening. She also explains how technology can transform compliance from a burden into a value driver, improving efficiency for recruiters and confidence for clients.
Ben Wood believes scaling a recruitment business is not about growing fast, it is about growing smart. In this episode, he shares how recruitment founders can build businesses that are profitable, sustainable and ready for exit.Darren Cottrell talks with Ben about shifting from being a top biller to building high-performing teams, the importance of having a clear strategy, and how to prepare your business for long-term success
Jessica Kimber built a million dollar desk by doing things differently. In this episode, she joins Darren Cottrell to share how she created talent communities that fill roles fast, used the One to Many Method to nurture at scale, and developed a personal brand that actually drives business. They discuss why most BD strategies fall flat, how to post content that feels authentic, and what recruiters need to do to build consistent lead flow. If you want to scale smarter, this episode is for you.
Steve Tolen doesn’t believe in scripts or shortcuts. He believes in showing up, knowing your value, and building real relationships.In this episode, he chats with Darren Cottrell about how business development has evolved, why your personal brand matters more than ever, and how to master modern BD without losing the human touch.Steve also shares his six pillars for success in sales, his thoughts on AI in recruitment, and why his event Change the Game is focused on connection over competition.If you’re in sales or recruitment and want to do it better, this one’s a must-listen.
Erin Devlin believes high performance isn’t about finding unicorns, it’s about building the right environment. In this episode, she shares how she’s created a culture of accountability and support inside her agency. Darren Cottrell sits down and talks with Erin about the importance of values alignment, how to set a clear social contract with consultants, and why trust is the real differentiator. Erin also discusses her career transition program for athletes, the reason she wrote her book Get the Job You Really Want, and how her early career as a ballerina shaped her leadership style.
In this episode, we delve into the evolving landscape of medical recruitment, focusing on the unique challenges faced by agencies recruiting for rural and remote locations compared to metro hospitals. We explore the impact of telehealth, the shifting market trends, and the importance of quality over quantity in recruitment. Join us as we discuss how travel incentives, telehealth support, and the competitive recruitment environment are shaping the future of medical staffing.
In this episode, we explore the transformative power of aligning your team with your business values. Colin Cuthbert shares his journey from direct sales to leadership, highlighting the challenges of delegation and the importance of trusting your team to flourish. Learn how to identify the "right people" for your organisation, create a values-driven culture, and avoid the pitfalls of holding onto tasks for too long and the importance of spreading your risk. Plus, discover why most businesses fail to sell and the steps you can take to make yours stand out in the market. Whether you’re a business owner, team leader, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers actionable advice to scale your business and lead with purpose.
In this episode, we dive deep into the importance of face-to-face meetings in recruitment and how they transform client relationships and help recruiters stand out by prioritising quality over quantity. This episode delivers actionable advice on creating meaningful connections, showcasing expertise, and adopting a value-add mindset to build trust and close deals effectively.
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