Podcasts:

BWD IN THE KNOW | EPISODE 29

Recruitment has been running on fumes for years. The contingent model dominates, yet it delivers an 80% chance of wasted time.

Louise Archer and I dug into why the industry clings to it, despite better alternatives.

Some key takeaways:

Retained search isn’t just for execs in pinstripe suits—it’s a better way to recruit across the board.
Clients often think contingent is faster and cheaper, but the reality? It’s slow, inefficient, and costs more in the long run.
The biggest issue? A lack of education. Louise shared a story about a senior HR leader who spent 15 years rejecting retained search—until she finally had it explained properly. Now, she’s one of their top retained billers.
AI will eat low-level, high-volume hiring. For recruiters to survive, they need to move up the value chain—retained search is the future.

Thanks to Louise for a great conversation!

So, is it time to stop treating recruitment like a gamble?

▶Dive into the strategic insights:

Apple Podcast | Spotify | YouTube | Website

The Power of Elicitation with Lena Sisco | LinkedIn Live Recording

Former U.S. Navy Intelligence Officer Lena Sisco joins BWD’s James Walker to explore the power of elicitation — revealing how better conversations build trust, uncover intent, and lead to stronger professional outcomes.

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BWD IN THE KNOW | EPISODE 44

James speaks with Vicky Hicks, Co-Founder of Melo, about building and selling a firm, the realities of today’s M&A market and why clear processes, strong propositions and essential technology protect business value long before an exit.

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BWD IN THE KNOW | EPISODE 43

James speaks with Tom Francis of Octopus Money about how the role of the financial planner is changing, the influence of behavioural psychology, and how technology could scale quality financial advice to millions.

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