Épisodes

  • The Fear of Failure That's Holding You Back (And How to Beat It)

    The Fear of Failure That's Holding You Back (And How to Beat It)
    Oct 19 2026
    In this episode of Talent Unboxed, Jack Fleckney shares what most people get wrong about fear, failure, and why trying something difficult is always better than staying comfortable. Jack opens up about getting dropped from professional rugby, joining the Royal Marines at 17, and why nine months of selection taught him more about purpose than performance. He talks about leaving the military at 23, opening a CrossFit gym with no business experience, and why he slept on the gym floor for 18 months just to keep it running. Whether you're stuck in a job that doesn't fit, thinking about starting something new, or just wondering how to push past the fear of what other people think, this conversation will challenge how you see risk, resilience, and what it really takes to build a life you're proud of. 👍 If this episode made you rethink what failure actually means, hit subscribe and drop a like. Let us know your thoughts in the comments. Chapters 00:00 Introductions 03:22 Jack's Rugby Career and Signing with Wasps 09:33 When Rugby Didn't Work Out 11:39 Joining the Royal Marines on a Whim 15:37 Royal Marines Training: The Nine-Month Crucible 19:57 Deployments and First Experiences in Africa 22:45 Why Jack Left the Military 25:52 Should More Young People Join the Military? 29:15 Opening His First CrossFit Gym 34:10 Growing to Five Gym Locations and Building a Franchise 39:54 The World Record Ski Erg Challenge 40:21 Crossing the Okavango Delta with Hippos and Crocodiles 42:05 The Pull-Up Challenge That Taught Him About Failure 48:00 Rowing 3,000 Miles Across the Atlantic 51:32 The Fear of Failure That Holds People Back 55:32 The Birth of Legend Expeditions 59:06 Building Legend: From One Climb to 40 Per Year 1:00:48 Lessons from Tanzania and What's Next Links and Resources: 🔗 Find out more about Jack and Legend Expeditions: 🌐 Website: https://www.legendexpeditions.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jack-fleckney/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    1 h et 3 min
  • Running a Depot at 23: What Most Young Leaders Get Wrong

    Running a Depot at 23: What Most Young Leaders Get Wrong
    Oct 12 2026
    He started at 20 in his dad's business. By 23, he was running a depot 200 miles from home, managing people twice his age. Now he's Vice President of Global Home Delivery for AIT Worldwide, living between the US and the UK, scaling operations across three countries. In this episode of Talent Unboxed, Gary McKelvey shares what most young leaders get wrong, why hard work still beats entitlement, and how he navigated family business dynamics, corporate culture clashes, and international expansion without losing himself in the process. Gary opens up about being thrown into leadership with no safety net, learning to manage older, more experienced teams, and why the best advice he ever got was just get it done. He talks about moving from carrier to retailer, working for Argos managing a £150 million budget, and why being comfortable in your own skin is the most underrated skill in business. Whether you're a young professional figuring out your path, a business owner trying to scale, or someone managing remote teams across borders, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, growth, and what it really takes to succeed. 👍 If this episode made you rethink what leadership looks like at any age, hit subscribe and drop a like. Let us know your thoughts in the comments. CHAPTERS: Chapters 00:00 - 01:38 Introductions 02:30 Gary's Background and Entry into Home Delivery 03:43 What is Final Mile Delivery? 05:04 How COVID Changed the Home Delivery Industry 11:53 Running a Depot at 23: Thrown in the Deep End 19:07 The Power of Hard Work and Taking on More Responsibility 25:46 Navigating Corporate Life After Family Business 31:58 Be Comfortable in Your Own Skin 36:32 Joining Panther and the Path to Leadership 41:54 Scaling Panther Through Aggressive Growth 44:52 Taking Home Delivery Global: US and Germany Expansion 50:50 One Tip for Scaling Your Business 53:55 Outros Links and Resources: 🔗 Find out more about Gary and AIT Worldwide: 🌐 Website: https://www.aitworldwide.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mckelvey-8a87a028/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    54 min
  • Warehouse Operative to COO: What a Real Career in Logistics Actually Looks Like

    Warehouse Operative to COO: What a Real Career in Logistics Actually Looks Like
    Oct 5 2026
    Join me on Talent Unboxed as I chat with Darren Twiselton, who shares his inspiring journey from a warehouse operative to COO of a logistics startup. With over 20 years in the industry, Darren debunks the myth of logistics being just about shuffling boxes in dark warehouses. Instead, he highlights the diverse career opportunities and essential human skills still needed in an increasingly automated world. Discover how emotional intelligence and culture have become vital in modern logistics, and learn about Darren's vision for building a leading service provider in the UK. Whether you're a job seeker or a business leader, this episode offers valuable insights into the dynamic logistics sector. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with career advice and industry anecdotes. Links and Resources: 🔗 Find out more about Darren : 🌐 Website : https://kernterminal.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-twiselton/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    1 h et 6 min
  • Running A Recruitment Business... With My Spouse

    Running A Recruitment Business... With My Spouse
    Sep 21 2026
    In this episode of Talent Unboxed, I sit down with my wife and business partner, Helly, to explore the unique dynamics of running a recruitment business together. From navigating the challenges of recruitment during a pandemic to creating a flexible work environment for our employees, we share insights into our journey. We discuss the importance of building relationships in the industry, the lessons we've learned along the way, and how our partnership has evolved both personally and professionally. Join us as we delve into the complexities of balancing work and family life while striving for success in the recruitment sector. Tune in for an engaging conversation that offers valuable perspectives for anyone in the business world.
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    52 min
  • The Personal Brand Myth Everyone Believes

    The Personal Brand Myth Everyone Believes
    Sep 14 2026
    In this episode of Talent Unboxed, Chris sits down with Chloe Blades. Business mentor and college lecturer to unpack what personal branding actually means for job seekers, business owners, and employers trying to attract the right talent. Chloe shares the moment she quit her job with only 300 Instagram followers, why she believes a clear, potent message will always beat generic visibility. The conversation also digs into first impressions, dress codes, and why so many graduates are losing out on jobs before they even speak. 👍 If this episode gave you a new way to think about your personal brand, hit subscribe and give it a like it helps us keep bringing these conversations to you. Let us know in the comments what you thought about this conversation. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - 3:29 Intros 3:29 - 6:25 What is personal brand? 6:25 - 8:08 Will Personal Brand Replace the CV? 8:08 - 9:44 Visibility vs. Loyalty: What Actually Converts 9:44 - 13:14 Employer Brand 13:14 - 14:46 The #1 Tip for Improving Your Employer Brand 14:46 - 18:13 Chloe's Story: Quit Her Job With Just 300 Followers 18:13 - 20:37 Will AI Replace Personal Brand Consultants? 20:37 - 26:46 First Impressions Still Count 26:46 - 29:34 The importance of personal brand 29:34 - 31:12 What's Next for Chloe 31:12 - 32:35 The Biggest Personal Brand Mistake 32:35 - 36:04 Show People the Mission, Not Just the Content 36:04 - 38:29 Outros Links and Resources: 🔗 Find out more about Chloe and growing your personal brand: Website: https://www.itschloeco.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itschloeco Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itschloeco/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-blades-59816911b/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    38 min
  • Schools Are Failing Kids (Here's The Real Reason)

    Schools Are Failing Kids (Here's The Real Reason)
    Sep 7 2026
    In this unfiltered episode of Talent Unboxed, Chris sits down with Ben Thomas founder of All Things Business, the Business Awards, and the Education Awards for Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes. Ben opens up about starting out on a market stall at 13, building multiple businesses through networking (not tech), and why he believes the current school system isn't preparing kids for the real world. Whether you're a business owner, parent, educator, or someone figuring out your career path, this episode will challenge how you think about relationships, technology, and what really prepares young people for life. 👍 If this episode made you think differently, hit subscribe and drop a like it genuinely helps us keep bringing these honest, unscripted conversations to you. And let us know your thoughts in the comments. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - 6:58 Introductions 6:58 - 12:03 Ben's Story 12:03 - 15:39 The power of networking 15:39 - 23:42 Why Relationships Still Beat Technology 23:42 - 33:05 Is the Education System Fit for Purpose? 33:05 - 38:52 Why Careers Advice in Schools Is Broken 38:52 - 44:17 Financial Life Skills Should Be on the Curriculum 44:17 - 49:30 Ben's Advice for the Next Generation 49:30 - 50:02 Outros Links and Resources: 🔗 Find out more about Ben: 🌐 Website : https://www.linkedin.com/company/gogiant/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benbmtthomas/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    50 min
  • How to Scale a Business & Build a Winning Team

    How to Scale a Business & Build a Winning Team
    Aug 31 2026
    What does it really take to scale a business, build a strong team and develop the right talent? In this episode of Talent Unboxed, Dan Harding, COO of Sign in Solutions, shares lessons from growing a Northampton tech start-up into a global business operating across multiple countries, including the importance of adapting to change, investing in apprentices, developing employees and thinking bigger when it comes to business growth. Dan also discusses AI and technology, recruitment, career development, apprenticeships, hiring young talent and advice for people looking to change careers or start a business. 👍 Enjoyed this video? Make sure to like, follow and subscribe for more insights on recruitment, careers, business growth, and workplace success. CHAPTERS: 00:00 - 3:29 Introductions 3:29 - 9:36 Story behind Sign in Solutions 9:36 - 12:20 Building a Local Team and Scaling Globally 12:20 - 14:44 Managing Culture Through Business Growth 14:44 - 16:04 Why Adaptability Drives Career Growth 16:04 - 18:12 Why Founders Need to Think Bigger 18:12 - 20:03 How AI Has Changed Business Growth 20:03 - 23:43 What's Next for Sign In App? 23:43 - 23:28 The Future of Business in Northampton 23:28 - 36:19 Why Businesses Should Invest in Apprentices 36:19 - 38:17 The Advice Every Job Seeker Needs 38:17 - 40:13 Outros Links and Resources: 🔗 Find out more about Dan Harding and Sign in Solutions : 🌐 Website : https://signinsolutions.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hardingdan/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    40 min
  • You Don’t Need to Tick Every Box to Get Hired (HR Expert Explains)

    You Don’t Need to Tick Every Box to Get Hired (HR Expert Explains)
    Aug 17 2026
    Welcome to Talent Unboxed. In this episode, titled "You Don’t Need to Tick Every Box to Get Hired," I sit down with Ben Eveson, an HR Business Partner at HomeServe Finance. Ben shares invaluable insights on navigating the job market, emphasising that candidates should not hesitate to apply even if they meet only 50% of the job requirements. We delve into the importance of accommodating neurodiversity and creating inclusive work environments. Ben also discusses his journey from operations to HR, the impact of his ADHD diagnosis, and how it has become his superpower in the workplace. Tune in for practical advice on career progression, the significance of onboarding, and fostering a positive company culture. Don't miss this enlightening conversation, and remember to subscribe for more insights from Talent Unboxed. Links and Resources 🔗 Find out more about (name) : 🌐 Website: https://homeservegroup.com/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/homeserve-plc/ Ben's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-eveson-mba-cmgr-fcmi-b25b6551/ 🎙️ Talent Unboxed Platforms: 🔗 Website: https://acs.acsstaffingsolutions.co.uk/talent-unboxed 🔗 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/6aee5782-d75f-4ebd-9d69-13aed0b7632f/talent-unboxed 🔗 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6XrU3VGEKwEZjxOck5elpi?si=fQy4lu8oR2S4niy1fXnyAg 🔗 Apple Podcasts: https://podcastsconnect.apple.com/my-podcasts/show/talent-unboxed/4057a2b5-83a1-43b7-815f-982f10127b3c 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DqYapkPFu/?mibextid=wwXIfr 🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talentunboxed 🔗 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/showcase/talent-unboxed-podcast 🔗 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talentunboxed
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    54 min