APositive Insights

Hosted by Darren Cottrell

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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About the show

APositive are specialists in tailored back-office and funding solutions for the Recruitment and Labour Hire industries. 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to episodes

30 recent

June 11, 202630 min

Tom Pammenter: The Future of Freelance Talent

In this episode of Apositive Insights, host Darren Cottrell sits down with Tom Pammenter, Founder of Frame25, to explore how freelance and independent talent is reshaping the future of recruitment.They discuss the growing demand for flexible workforce models, why more professionals are choosing freelance careers, and what this shift means for recruitment businesses looking to stay relevant and competitive.The conversation also explores how recruiters can build new revenue streams through freelance and project-based talent solutions, the technology enabling these models, and the opportunities agencies are missing by relying solely on traditional permanent and contract recruitment.This episode is a practical and forward-looking discussion for recruitment leaders looking to diversify their offering, adapt to changing workforce expectations, and position their business for the future of work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 5, 202629 min

Sean Anderson: The Next Generation Recruiter Playbook

In this episode of Apositive Insights, host Darren Cottrell sits down with Sean Anderson from Hoxo to break down what’s really driving growth for recruiters in 2026.They explore why personal branding has shifted from optional to essential, the growing gap between visible and invisible recruiters, and how consistency in content is directly impacting pipeline and performance.The conversation also dives into the rise of Ai and technology, where recruiters are getting it wrong and how to use AI to increase output without losing authenticity. Sean shares practical ways to stay visible, build authority and turn attention into real opportunities.This episode is an important and practical discussion for recruiters looking to stay competitive, build their pipeline and grow with more control. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 14, 202640 min

Richard Spencer: Breaking the Old Age Stereotype in Recruitment

In this episode of Apositive Insights, host Darren Cottrell sits down with Richard Spencer from AgeInc to challenge outdated perceptions around age in recruitment and explore why mature workers are one of the most overlooked talent pools in today’s market.They discuss the real impact of age bias, why many businesses continue to overlook experienced candidates, and the commercial risks of failing to adapt as workforces age. Richard shares insights on performance, loyalty, adaptability, and the value older employees bring to businesses facing talent shortages.The conversation also explores how agencies and employers can build stronger multi-generational teams, reduce unconscious bias, and create more inclusive hiring practices that unlock talent across every age group. A practical discussion for recruitment leaders looking to widen opportunity and strengthen long-term growth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

January 28, 202629 min

Khanh Pham: AI, Experience and the Next Era of Recruitment

In this episode of APositive Insights, host Darren Cottrell sits down with Khanh Pham from Bullhorn to explore what the recruitment data is really telling us as the industry heads toward 2026.They unpack why fewer candidates are working with recruiters, how expectations around speed and transparency have shifted, and where AI is already making a measurable impact across the recruitment lifecycle. Drawing on Bullhorn’s GRID Talent Trends, the conversation looks at how leading agencies are using automation to improve candidate experience, free up recruiter time, and build stronger relationships with clients and talent.The episode also dives into generational differences, including why Gen Z is currently the least satisfied group and why that presents a real opportunity for agencies willing to adapt. A practical, data-led discussion for recruitment leaders looking to stay competitive in a tougher, faster-moving market. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December 10, 202550 min

Guy Day: Building a Resilient Business & What Data Really Matters

In this episode, Kamal Founder Guy Day joins us to unpack how data and real-time insights are transforming the recruitment and labour hire industry. Guy shares why he built Kamal, the gap he saw in recruitment tech, and the metrics agency owners should actually be paying attention to.We discuss common data misconceptions, the early warning signs leaders often miss, and which performance indicators matter most in a slow market. Guy also reveals what future-ready recruitment firms will be tracking in the years ahead and the key advice he’d give agency owners planning for sustainable growth.A must-listen for recruitment leaders who want clearer data, stronger decisions and a competitive edge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

November 5, 202544 min

Kim Seeling Smith: Future-proofing Recruitment for 2035

In this episode of Apositive Insights, Kim Seeling Smith joins us to 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.Powered by Apositive, helping recruitment and labour hire businesses grow stronger, smarter, and more sustainably. Follow us on LinkedIn and Youtube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October 6, 202531 min

Tania Evans: Turning Compliance into Competitive Advantage

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September 9, 202528 min

Ben Wood: Scaling Smarter and Preparing for Exit

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 2, 202512 min

Jessica Kimber: Million Dollar Biller to Brand Builder

Million dollar biller. Branding powerhouse. Recruitment strategist.In this episode of APositive Insights, we speak with Jessica Kimber, Founder of Raire Group and one of the most forward-thinking minds in recruitment.We dive into:•How she built community groups to fill dozens of roles daily•The One to Many Method for nurturing candidates and clients at scale•How recruiters can show up authentically online•What most people get wrong about business development•Why only 5 percent of recruiters are happy with their BD strategyPlus, an exciting announcement: Raire Group is now partnering with APositive to help recruiters scale smarter. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 29, 202528 min

Steve Tolen: Change the Game in Business Development

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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.