Everybody has an official resume or CV that documents their qualifications and experience. But we also have an unofficial or secret resume that is made up of key people, experiences and places that have influenced how we see the world, what is important to us, and how we approach our work. The Secret Resume podcast is a deep dive into the untold stories behind successful leaders and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Melody Moore, it uncovers the life-changing moments and personal experiences that don’t make it onto traditional resumes.
Each episode brings a fresh perspective as diverse guests share their challenges, successes, and defining relationships that shaped their leadership journeys.
This isn’t just about careers—it’s about real, raw human stories that inspire. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, develop as a leader, or gain a deeper understanding of personal growth, The Secret Resume is your key to unlocking success.
You can listen to the secret resume podcast episodes on this page, or find them on all the usual platforms – click on the images below to connect to your favourite:
Series Seven - The HR Leaders
Not sure which episode to listen to? Check out these clips first, then scroll down to listen to your favourite!
Episode 44 - 'From Burnout to Balance: Laura Allen’s Journey from HR Coordinator to Confident Consultant'
In this episode of The Secret Resume podcast, join our host Melody Moore as she chats with the incredible Laura Allen, an operations and people partner based in London. Laura opens up about her unique career journey, the pivotal moments that have defined her, and the influential figures along the way.
From wrestling with a rigid corporate narrative to embracing a more flexible and empowering fractional model, Laura’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention. She discusses overcoming personal challenges, including navigating a toxic relationship, managing undiagnosed autism, and dealing with profound loss, all while outlining how these experiences have shaped her professional path.
Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Laura’s unfiltered and heartfelt stories infused with both vulnerability and strength. This intimate and candid conversation will leave you pondering what true freedom looks like and how you can harness life’s challenges to sculpt your own fulfilling journey.
You can connect with Laura here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraallencoach/
Laura’s book recommendations:
52 Weeks of Wellbeing: A No Nonsense Guide by Ryan Hopkins – https://amzn.to/4dRz8N6
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss – https://amzn.to/4kT9Ykd
- The Road Less Travelled by M. Scott Peck – https://amzn.to/440seRl
- The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer – https://amzn.to/45h7Z4b
Founder vs Investor: The Honest Truth About Venture Capital from Startup to IPO by Elizabeth Zalman and Gerry Neumann – https://amzn.to/3Zre8XI
And if you’re on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It’s all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate. You can access a copy of the full transcript here.
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production. You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody’s book ‘The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams’ or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
Episode 43 - 'From Call Centres to Culture Architect: Steph Thommen’s HR Journey'
What happens when a French academic-turned-call-centre-leader becomes an expert in startup culture and people operations?
In this episode, Melody Moore sits down with Steph Thommen, Fractional Head of People, culture geek, and accidental entrepreneur, to explore the career pivots, personal influences, and deep values that don’t show up on her LinkedIn profile, but shape everything she does.
From her rebellious, wine-sharing aunt to building high-performing teams in tech startups, Steph shares candid insights into the messy magic of leading with humanity. Whether you’re navigating scale-up chaos, rethinking your relationship with work, or just curious about what “good HR” really looks like, this conversation will challenge, inspire, and stick with you.
Topics include:
Culture as a strategic tool (not a vibe)
Startup myths and realities
Identity, belonging, and being the “outsider within”
Why being treated like an adult at 13 shaped her leadership lens
You can connect with Steph here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/startupsteph/
Steph’s book recommendation:
Drive by Dan Pink – https://amzn.to/4dNX5Fc
Find Your Why by Simon Sinek – https://amzn.to/4dJmmQV
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown – https://amzn.to/4jyuKnD
The 10 Laws of Trust by Joel Peterson – https://amzn.to/4dJAXMc
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni – https://amzn.to/4kOBYoE
And if you’re on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It’s all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate. You can access a copy of the full transcript here.
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production. You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody’s book ‘The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams’ or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
Episode 42 - 'Fake it, Make it, Own it: Debbie Hayler on Building Confidence Without Credentials'
Welcome to another episode of the Secret Resume podcast, where we’re all about digging into the juicy stories behind the LinkedIn profiles. Today, Melody welcomes Debbie Hayler to share her captivating journey full of unique twists and turns that didn’t quite make it onto her CV but have definitely shaped who she is today.
Debbie shares what it was like growing up as a victim of school bullying, and how those tough experiences played a part in moulding her career perspective. You’ll hear about the ups and downs of her educational path, her decision to pursue performing arts, and eventually her rewarding career in Learning and Development (L&D).
Get inspired as she talks about imposter syndrome, the impact of an empowering TED Talk by Amy Cuddy, and the profound difference a supportive mentor can make. Plus, Debbie spills on her incredible feeling of validation after winning a prestigious L&D award, and how she’s now ready to inspire others by stepping out of her comfort zone.
So, grab your favourite drink, sit back, and enjoy this discussion between two passionate human beings delving into the magic of personal growth and professional journeys.
You can connect with Debbie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiehayler/
Debbie’s book recommendation:
-
Presence by Amy Cuddy – https://amzn.to/3SiGhwa
Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk that Debbie references: https://youtu.be/Ks-_Mh1QhMc?si=1pMKMLCA5otcmmZp
And if you’re on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It’s all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate. You can access a copy of the full transcript here.
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production. You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody’s book ‘The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams’ or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
Episode 41 - 'Being More Human, Less Resource: Karen Hughes' on HR with Heart'
This week join us as we dive into the untold stories of Karen Hughes, a fearless leader in HR with a background that spans retail giant M&S to the management consultancy Hay Group. She’s here to share her unique insights on what it means to truly embrace change and lead with authenticity in today’s work environment.
Join us as we chat about everything from Karen’s early work experience in retail (including selling a giant chocolate bunny to Victoria Beckham!) to her view on the future of HR. Learn how her journey shaped her views and strategies in HR and talent development.
Whether you’re in HR yourself, or simply curious about what it means to be human at work, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to tackle your own messy, magical career path. Enjoy the conversation!
You can connect with Karen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-hughes-chartered-fcipd-75035811/
Karen’s book recommendation:
Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni – https://amzn.to/3Ztz4gB
And if you’re on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It’s all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate. You can access a copy of the full transcript here.
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production. You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody’s book ‘The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams’ or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
Episode 40 - Stella Collins - 'A Wondering Wander Through The World: Neuroscience and Learning with Stella Collins'
Welcome to the latest episode of the Secret Resume podcast, where we dive into the untold stories that shape my guests’ careers and lives. Today, we’re in for an exciting chat with Stella Collins, an amazing advocate for brain-based learning and the co-founder of Stella Labs.
Get ready to embark on a fascinating journey from Stella’s foray into IT in the ’80s to her passion for making learning impactful. We’ll explore expert systems, early e-learning, and the ever-evolving field of neuroscience.
Tune in for some captivating insights and maybe a sprinkle of laughs along the way!
You can connect with Stella here: hhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stellacollinslearningrevolution/
You can find Stella’s books here:
‘Neuroscience for Learning and Development’ here: https://amzn.to/4drv6eo
Writing Skills pocketbook: https://www.pocketbook.co.uk/product/writing-skills-pocketbook/
Webinars pocketbook: Top Tips to ensure your meeting, presentation or training session is a virtual winner https://www.pocketbook.co.uk/product/webinars-pocketbook/
And her LinkedIn Learning Programme Here: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/using-neuroscience-for-more-effective-l-d/using-neuroscience-in-training
Stella’s book recommendations:
-
What Makes Training Really Work by Ina Weinbauer-Heidel – https://amzn.to/4mhL6nc
- The Extended Mind by Annie Murphy Paul – https://amzn.to/44zuTDv
And if you’re on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It’s all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate. You can access a copy of the full transcript here.
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production. You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody’s book ‘The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams’ or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
Episode 39 - Perry Timms - 'Rebel with a Cause: Perry Timms on HR Transformation'
Welcome to another episode of the Secret Resume podcast, where we dive deep into the untold stories and secret resumes of fascinating guests! This week, I’m thrilled to chat with the incredible Perry Timms, a true innovator in the world of HR.
Perry shares the colourful journey that brought him to the HR field, starting from his early days in the civil service to becoming a renowned HR leader. We explore his passion for learning, curiosity, and why he proudly wears the badge of a ‘Rebel with a Cause’.
We take a closer look at HR trends, the future of management, and what it means to create a truly people-powered organisation. Plus, Perry spills the beans on what he believes are essential areas for HR professionals to focus on for future success.
Whether you’re in HR, curious about personal growth, or just love hearing about unique career paths, this episode is for you. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and let’s get inspired together!
You can connect with Perry here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perrytimms/ or here: https://pthr.co.uk/
You can find Perry’s books here: https://amzn.to/44qPABA
Perry’s book recommendations:
Books by Russell Ackoff (Systems thinker) – https://amzn.to/3GHf9o4
- Reinventing Organisations by Frederick Laloux (10 year anniversary) – https://amzn.to/432nFWe
- Humanocracy by Gary Hamel and Michele Zanini – https://amzn.to/4iSuIqe
- Teal Dots in an Orange World by Erik Ostergaard – https://amzn.to/4iNo30k
And if you’re on a quest for personal growth or navigating a career transition, check out our Being Free membership. It’s all about finding your own path to freedom with a supportive community by your side. Head over to liberareconsulting.co.uk/being-free to join the waitlist.
The transcript that shows on your screen is automatically generated, therefore we cannot guarantee it is 100% accurate. You can access a copy of the full transcript here.
The Secret Resume podcast is a Liberare Consulting production. You can contact us at podcast@liberareconsulting.co.uk and can buy Melody’s book ‘The Inclusive Team: How to Build and Develop Inclusive High Performing Teams’ or a copy of our Inclusive Teams conversation Cards here: https://shorturl.at/XspUX Use the code podcast10 to get a 10% discount on all of the items on our product page.
Or why not join our community to get access to exclusive benefits and be the first to hear updates and news https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/community
If you are interested in becoming a guest on our show, please fill in the form here: https://liberare-consulting.ck.page/podcast_guest
We are an Amazon affiliate and receive a very small commission if you buy books through our Amazon links.
Find previous Secret Resume Podcast series here:
Series 1 – (Episodes 1-6)
Series 2 – (Episodes 7-12)
Series 3 – Black History Month 2023 (Episodes 13-16)
Series 4 – The Authors (Episodes 17-23)
Series 5 – The DEI Leaders (Episodes 24-30)
Series 6 – The Entrepreneurs (Episodes 31-38)
Transcripts Now Available for Download
We are now uploading the full transcripts for each episode so you can download and share these fascinating conversations in written format. Transcripts can be found here.
We are starting with episodes from the newer series. if you would like a transcript for one of the older episodes, please contact us.
Become a Guest!
If you think you would make an interesting guest for our podcast, why not fill out the guest application form here.
