HR Unboxed

Welcome to another lively episode of HR Unboxed with Natalie, Fay and Chris! This week, things get a little personal – and occasionally hilarious – as the team are joined by special guest Adam from Breathe HR for a deep dive into how digital HR systems can transform your workplace. From sticky notes and lost holiday forms to #Smellgate and the infamous toilet door holiday planner, this episode explores the real-world chaos of paper-based HR and how Breathe’s smart, secure and simple software brings order to the madness. Expect plenty of laughter, a few cringe-worthy office confessions, and honest insight into why modern HR isn’t about replacing people with robots — it’s about freeing them to focus on what really matters. Plus, the trio discuss office banter gone wrong, kudos systems that get a little too cheeky, and the strange realities of “duvet days” and “planned sick leave.” Whether you’re an HR professional, a small business owner, or just love a good workplace story, this episode will have you nodding along, laughing, and maybe even rethinking how you manage your team. 🎙️ Featuring: Natalie, Fay & Chris 👤 Guest: Adam from Breathe HR 💼 Sponsored by: Breathe HR – the smart, intuitive HR software designed to empower your people and simplify your admin. 👇 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more episodes of HR Unboxed! #HRUnboxed #BreatheHR #ReboxHR #HumanResources #WorkplaceStories #PodcastUK #HRSoftware #OfficeLife #Smellgate #HRFails #PeopleManagement #SmallBusinessUK #WorkplaceHumour #NatalieAndFay #EmployeeEngagement #BusinessPodcast

Join Natalie and Fay on HR Unboxed for a candid discussion on "The Truth About Imposter Syndrome at Work". This highly requested episode delves into that common, nervous feeling that you're not as brilliant as others perceive, fearing you'll be "found out" as a fraud, or questioning, "Am I good enough?". Natalie and Fay share personal experiences, highlighting that imposter syndrome affects everyone from HR directors to business owners, aspiring professionals, and seasoned experts at any career stage. Discover the symptoms, including self-doubt even amidst success, a fear of exposure, attributing achievements to luck rather than merit, and the pitfalls of perfectionism. The hosts explore how this internal conflict can significantly impact workplace performance, leading to burnout, procrastination, and overthinking, as individuals strive to prove themselves or avoid vulnerability. Learn practical strategies for tackling imposter syndrome, such as cultivating self-belief, maintaining a "win list," understanding your strengths, and focusing on controllable factors. They also discuss the importance of curiosity, asking questions, and seeking feedback, along with useful tools like Breathe HR's Burnout Hub and Kudos system for positive reinforcement. This episode is proudly brought to you by Breathe HR, the smart and intuitive HR software designed to free up your time and empower your people. Simplify your HR needs by checking them out at breather.com. #ImposterSyndrome #HRUnboxed #NatalieAndFay #WorkplaceChallenges #SelfDoubt #CareerGrowth #MentalHealthAtWork #BurnoutPrevention #HRTips #BreatheHR #ProfessionalDevelopment #Perfectionism #WorkplaceWellbeing #CareerConfidence

Season 2 of HR Unboxed opens with a fearless deep-dive into “Watched While Working” — the realities, risks and right ways to handle workplace surveillance. Natalie and Fay unpack what employers actually monitor (CCTV, keystroke logging, activity logs) and the rise of “mouse jigglers” in the work-from-home era. They explore remote-work distractions (including the notorious 49-minute washing-machine cycle), childcare cameos on Zoom, and why trust and output matter more than minute-by-minute monitoring. Real-world stories bring the stakes to life: the Amazon France fine for excessive tracking and bathroom timing; a BMW case where covert surveillance backfired at tribunal; and times private investigators uncovered long-term sick leave abuse and large-scale fuel siphoning. They examine mental-health impacts — stress, anxiety, paranoia — and how simple, regular feedback prevents staff from “filling in the blanks”. Crucially, they set out when monitoring is justified: health and safety (dashcams and in-cab CCTV protecting drivers — including a chilling A5 incident near Milton Keynes), theft prevention, lone-worker safety, and accurate timekeeping. Expect clear guidance on doing it lawfully: be proportionate, justified and transparent; have a privacy notice; use signage; avoid private areas; time-limit any covert action and get senior approval; consider a DPIA; and follow the Data Protection Act 2018 (what many still call GDPR). There’s practical talk on clock-in/clock-out and geofencing (as used in Breathe HR), plus why company culture beats micromanagement — and why Dave should leave the newspaper out of the loo. #HRUnboxed #Season2 #WorkplaceSurveillance #GDPR #DataProtection #CCTV #KeystrokeLogging #RemoteWork #GeoFencing #BreatheHR #EmploymentLaw #HealthAndSafety #LoneWorkers #HRAdvice #MentalHealthAtWork #TrustAndCulture #UKHR #PeopleOps #TimeTracking #Dashcams

In this unmissable episode, we’re tackling the hot topic chosen by our listeners: workplace clashes. From the everyday tension of denied holiday requests to boardroom bust-ups and “that was my idea!” moments, Natalie and Faye take you behind the scenes of HR disasters with their trademark humour, honesty and a hefty dose of reality. They dive into scenarios including time-off tantrums, religious leave conflicts, age and experience power struggles, and the emotional minefield of being overlooked or undermined at work. Plus, they explore how workplace WhatsApp groups can spiral into chaos, and what managers can do to keep team dynamics healthy and productive. Expect funny stories, jaw-dropping real-life cases, and practical advice for business owners, HR professionals and anyone navigating office politics. And yes, someone actually watered the office plants in the most outrageous way possible… Breathe HR proudly sponsors this episode, and if you're still tracking holidays on a spreadsheet or juggling manual processes, this might just be your sign to upgrade! Sponsored by Breathe HR, the smart and intuitive HR software for SMEs, designed to free up your time and empower your people. If you’re looking to simplify your HR, check them out at www.breathehr.com/en-gb/hr-unboxed #HRUnboxed #HRPodcast #WorkplaceDrama #OfficePolitics #HolidayRequests #HRStories #PeopleManagement #WorkplaceConflicts #LeadershipTips #BreatheHR #TeamTension #HRLife #FunnyHR #PodcastUK #EmployeeRelations #WorkplaceWellbeing #HRRealTalk

In Episode 11 of HR Unboxed, Natalie and Fay dive deep into the world of employment tribunals — the stressful, fascinating side of HR that every business owner and manager needs to understand. From real-life cases of explosive hotel bust-ups to sleeping security guards and the surprising cost of excluding someone from the office tea round, discover how small actions can lead to huge payouts. Learn why process, evidence, and proper support matter so much — and how to keep your business out of court. #HRUnboxed #EmploymentTribunal #HRPodcast #HRAdvice #UKBusiness #WorkplaceWellbeing #HRCompliance #ReboxHR #Tribunals #HRSupport

It’s episode 10 and Natalie and Faye are celebrating with awards, gongs, and... dismissals?! This special episode dives into the murky world of firing staff—from heat-of-the-moment outbursts to airtight legal processes. Discover how one badly worded email can cost a business thousands, why redundancy isn’t just a scary word, and what the ABCs of dismissal really stand for. With real-life HR horror stories, laughs, and a whole lot of lessons, this one’s essential listening for anyone who manages people. Also: why “little warnings” don’t exist! #HRUnboxed #WorkplaceDismissals #HRPodcast #EmploymentLaw #RedundancyReality #HRFails #LineManagerLife #PeopleManagement #TribunalTroubles #DismissalDrama #WorkplaceCulture

In this jam-packed episode of HR Unboxed, Chris Gregg joins Natalie and Fay to unpack the big topics shaking up the workplace. From jaw-dropping stats on how many Gen Z employees would choose to be "severed" like in the hit series Severance, to the real-life risks of staff taking confidential data with them when they leave. There’s drama, insight, and plenty of laughs as the trio chat data breaches, grievance trends, influencer burnout, and why employers must prepare for upcoming employment law changes. Grab a cuppa — this one’s a rollercoaster. #HRUnboxed #SeveranceSeries #GenZWorkforce #DataDrama #ResignationRevelations #WorkplaceTrends #EmploymentLaw #HRPodcast #FayAndNatalie #ChrisGregg #SmallBusinessHR #UKHR #GDPR #WorkplaceWellbeing #InfluencerLife #EmployeeRights

Middle managers—caught between the top brass and the frontline staff, they deal with everything from unmotivated employees to unexpected absences. In this episode, Natalie and Faye dive into the challenges faced by middle management and why they’re the backbone of any organisation. 💼 Balancing work-life expectations vs. performance demands 📉 Managing absenteeism and the classic "bank holiday sickness" ⚖️ The fine line between discipline and motivation 👔 Dress codes: What’s appropriate, what’s awkward, and why your mankini won’t cut it Whether you’re a seasoned manager or new to the role, this episode is packed with insights, practical advice, and a few HR horror stories. 🎧 Tune in and find out how to survive—and thrive—as a middle manager! #HRUnboxed #MiddleManagement #WorkplaceHR #HRPodcast #PeopleManagement #LeadershipTips #HRProblems #OfficeLife #WorkplaceDrama #EmployeeRelations #HRFails

Grievances – we all know them, but when should they be taken seriously, and when are they just workplace gripes? In this episode, Natalie and Chris break down the fine line between a minor complaint and a full-blown HR issue. From unfair pay to passive-aggressive Post-it notes, we tackle real-life workplace dilemmas with insight, humour, and some wild stories. 👀 Are managers playing favourites? 🤔 Is your colleague the self-appointed Fridge Police? 💼 When does a broken promise turn into a real grievance? Find out why consistency is key, how to handle complaints fairly, and why HR horror stories are often stranger than fiction. Got your own ridiculous workplace grievance? Send it our way! 🎧 Listen now and let’s talk HR – the fun (and frustrating) way! #HRUnboxed #WorkplaceGrievances #HRPodcast #WorkplaceDrama #HRProblems #OfficeLife #FairWorkplace #HRNightmares #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeRights #HRFails

In this juicy episode of HR Unboxed, Natalie and Faye dive into the world of HR confessions! From awkward workplace crushes to faked sick notes and auto-correct mishaps, this episode is filled with shocking, hilarious, and thought-provoking stories from employees that HR would rather keep under wraps. Here’s what’s in store: 😳 A secret workplace crush that’s about to boil over 😬 A bold holiday stunt with a forged sick note 🤔 A tenured employee stuck between comfort and career change 😂 An embarrassing text that turned "PA" into "predictive trouble" Natalie and Faye unpack each confession, offering advice, insights, and a healthy dose of laughter along the way. If you’ve ever wondered what HR professionals really think about these situations, this episode is for you! #HRConfessions #WorkplaceDrama #OfficeLife #HRUnboxed #PodcastEpisode #WorkplaceStories #AwkwardMoments #HRAdvice #WorkplaceHumor #OfficeConfessions #HRFails #CareerTalk #EmployeeConfessions #PodcastFun #WorkplaceRelationships

In this festive episode of HR Unboxed, Natalie and Faye bring the holiday spirit with practical advice for managing Christmas work events. From secret Santa blunders to tackling inappropriate behavior at the office party, they’ve got everything covered to help employers navigate the season without a hitch. This episode explores: 🎄 Conducting a risk assessment for work events 🎄 Managing alcohol, food, and travel arrangements responsibly 🎄 What to do if an incident occurs at the Christmas party 🎄 Fair holiday booking procedures and planning for annual leave 🎄 Supporting employee mental health during the festive period Plus, Natalie and Faye unveil new mental health support now available for Rebox HR retainer clients, and they’re giving away a free Christmas Guide for Employers! Whether you’re organizing your first work party or preparing for the end-of-year shutdown, this episode is packed with tips to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and stress-free holiday season for everyone. 🔗 Links: Download your free Christmas Guide: https://reboxhr.co.uk/a-hr-guide-to-surviving-the-office-christmas-party/ Subscribe to HR Unboxed for more HR advice.

In this episode of HR Unboxed, hosts Natalie and Faye from Rebox HR dive into a practical, step-by-step guide to help small business owners hire their very first employee with confidence. From defining the role to making the final offer, they cover all the essential HR steps you need to know—while sharing real-life stories of potential pitfalls and best practice tips to avoid common hiring headaches. Whether you're unsure where to start or worried about missing key legal requirements, Natalie and Faye's First Employee Starter Kit has everything you need in one handy package, including: ✅ Offer letter template ✅ Right to Work checklist ✅ Onboarding checklist ✅ GDPR-compliant privacy notice ✅ And even a free trial to Breathe HR software! Perfect for small businesses ready to grow, this episode has all the insights you need to ensure your first hire is a smooth, compliant, and successful experience. Hit play and get equipped with the resources and knowledge to bring your new team member on board like a pro!

In Episode 3 of the HR Unboxed Podcast, Natalie and Faye from Rebox HR dive deep into the "nitty-gritty" of HR, exploring some of the trickiest challenges businesses face today. From managing employee absences and mental health issues to navigating difficult performance conversations, this episode is packed with real-life HR dilemmas. Learn how to approach sensitive topics like patterned absences, return-to-work interviews, and the importance of having open, ongoing communication with your team. If you're a manager or business owner looking for practical HR advice, this episode is for you! 🔗 Got questions or HR challenges you want us to tackle? Leave a comment or reach out to us on LinkedIn. #HRUnboxed #HRPodcast #ReboxHR #ManagingAbsences #EmployeePerformance #MentalHealthAtWork #BusinessManagement

Welcome to Episode 2 of HR Unboxed with Natalie and Faye! 🎙️ In this episode, we kick things off by sharing our incredible experience climbing Mount Snowdon for charity! 🏔️ Together, we raised £650 for French Bulldog Rescue, and we’re diving into how teamwork was the key to making it to the top. Join us as we discuss why working together is essential in any challenge, whether it's scaling a mountain or tackling a tough project at work. Next, we’re unpacking the 60 upcoming changes to employment law following the change in Government. With so many adjustments on the horizon, it’s crucial for businesses to stay informed and compliant. We’ll share how Rebox HR is helping our clients prepare for these sweeping changes. Finally, we delve into the case of the week: The Singing Employee. A head chef at a hotel was awarded £80,000 at a tribunal after enduring inappropriate behaviour caused by a colleague singing a song at work. This case raises important questions about workplace banter—can it ever be truly innocent, or does it risk crossing the line into harassment? Tune in for valuable insights, legal updates, and a dose of inspiration! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔 #HRUnboxed #SmallBusinessHR #HumanResources #Podcast #EmployeeRelations #Recruitment #Retention #EmploymentLawCompliance

Welcome to the very first episode of HR Unboxed, the podcast where Natalie and Faye break down the complexities of human resources for small businesses! 🎉 In this inaugural episode, we dive into the critical role HR plays in the success of small businesses. From understanding what HR really is to exploring how it can drive productivity, employee satisfaction, and legal compliance, we cover the essentials every small business owner needs to know. We also tackle some of the most common HR challenges faced by small businesses, including: Recruitment and Retention: Why is it so hard to find and keep the right people? Employment Law Compliance: Navigating the complexities of ever-changing laws. Employee Relations: Tips for managing conflicts and building a positive workplace culture. Whether you're a small business owner or an HR professional, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to help you navigate the HR landscape effectively. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you find this episode helpful. Let's unbox HR together! #HRUnboxed #SmallBusinessHR #HumanResources #Podcast #EmployeeRelations #Recruitment #Retention #EmploymentLawCompliance