Powered by RND
PodcastsBusinessLife After Public Service

Life After Public Service

Donna Bentley-Carr
Life After Public Service
Latest episode

Available Episodes

5 of 29
  • How Jeff Hill Managed Work-Life Harmony in a High-Pressure Policing Career
    In today's episode, Donna interviews Jeff Hill, a former police officer turned CEO of Harrier Global Limited. Jeff shares his journey from a fulfilling 30-year career in the police force to establishing a business that provides strategic security advice to high-net-worth individuals and corporations. He discusses the motivations that led him to join the police, the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, and the challenges of transitioning into the business world. KEY TAKEAWAYS Joining the police force was driven by a desire for a fulfilling career that offered excitement, variety, and the opportunity to make a positive impact. This sense of purpose can be crucial for job satisfaction. Establishing boundaries between work and personal life is vital. Prioritising family commitments and setting clear expectations with colleagues can help maintain a healthy balance, especially in demanding roles. Skills gained in public service, such as communication, problem-solving, and risk assessment, are highly valuable in the business world. Recognising and leveraging these skills can enhance confidence and effectiveness in new roles. Transitioning from public service to business requires adaptability and the ability to build new professional relationships. Networking and understanding the market are key to establishing credibility and securing clients. In the security industry, the emphasis should be on providing reassurance rather than instilling fear. Educating clients about risk management and the importance of proactive measures can foster trust and long-term relationships. BEST MOMENTS "I was always of the view that you made your own luck. You have to actually go out and be very proactive, sometimes very bold, very innovative and creative to generate the opportunity to gather evidence against people." "We never sell fear. We're not the kind of company that will go to speak to a client and say, oh God, you need to be doing this. It's not what we do. We're actually quite the opposite. We sell reassurance." "The better we understand an individual, the better our relationship with them. If you're not prepared to share it with us, we're not necessarily going to know about it, we can't counter the threat that's there." ABOUT THE HOST Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service. https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/ Email: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    --------  
    53:29
  • How Gemma Holden Turned Challenges into Opportunities in Business
    In this episode, Gemma Holden, also known as Mrs. Mindset, shares her inspiring journey from public service to entrepreneurship. Gemma reflects on her challenging school days, her transition from hairdressing to working with children, and the eventual establishment of her childminding business, Little Gems. After experiencing burnout, she took a step back to focus on personal growth and self-discovery, which led her to become a coach and mentor. KEY TAKEAWAYS Recognising the importance of emotional well-being and taking time for self-reflection can lead to significant personal growth and improved mental health. This journey often involves uncovering past experiences and understanding their impact on current behaviour. Skills developed in various roles, such as hairdressing and childcare, are transferable to other areas of life and business. Building relationships, effective communication, and empathy are crucial in any profession, especially in coaching and mentoring. Acknowledging when burnout occurs is vital for maintaining passion and effectiveness in a caregiving role. Making the decision to step back from a business or job to prioritise personal well-being can lead to better outcomes for both the individual and those they serve. There is a significant need for emotional and mental well-being support for parents and children who are neurodivergent. Creating a supportive community and providing resources can help families navigate challenges and reduce feelings of isolation. Having a clear vision of what one wants to achieve in life and business is essential. Understanding the target audience and developing a strategic plan can help avoid the pitfalls of "winging it" and lead to more successful outcomes. BEST MOMENTS "I left school with no GCSEs at all. I was masking. I was pretending to be this child who was strong and didn't care about anything when actually inside I was a very emotional child." "I had to make the decision and say, right, OK, so I'm going to lose out on a lot of money here. I believe that when you're working in a care sector, you have to have that passion." "I decided that my business was doing really well. I had to tell them that, and then I got made redundant. And it was probably the best thing that happened to me." "It's about building relationships. It's about that communication and building relationships." "Having that clarity on that and understanding, do you know what? It is gonna be tough, but so are you." ABOUT THE HOST Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service. https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/ Email: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    --------  
    26:12
  • Thriving Not Surviving: How Helen Valentino Transformed Pain into Purpose
    In this episode, Donna interviews Helen Valentino, a former military nurse and NHS professional who has transitioned into the world of business and podcasting with her show, "Thriving Not Surviving." Helen shares her inspiring journey, detailing her early life challenges, including personal trauma and health issues, which ultimately led her to a spiritual awakening.  KEY TAKEAWAYS There is a strong interconnection between physical health, mental health, and emotional well-being. Issues in one area can manifest in another, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to health. Thriving does not mean a lack of challenges or difficulties. It involves maintaining hope and joy despite adversity, recognizing that life is imperfect but can still be fulfilling and meaningful. Forgiveness is portrayed as a selfish act that benefits the individual who forgives, rather than the one who caused the hurt. Letting go of anger and resentment is crucial for personal health and well-being. Working in community nursing provides unique insights into people's lives, challenging stereotypes and revealing the importance of understanding individuals beyond their circumstances. Experiences of hardship can lead to personal growth and empathy. Overcoming challenges can empower individuals to help others and find purpose in their struggles. BEST MOMENTS "I think the whole point is we're supposed to be in balance, aren't we? And for me personally, and this is just my own philosophy, is that we have a physical, spiritual and emotional body." "When things don't seem to be going my way, I trust the universe has better plans for me." "I think people see success as money and fame. And I think for me, thriving has got nothing to do with how much money you've got." GUESTS LINKS Instagram. - https://www.instagram.com/helens_inspired_healing/ Website - www.inspiredhealing.co.uk Email - [email protected] ABOUT THE HOST Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.  She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service. https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/ Email: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    --------  
    1:03:43
  • Your One Life: Claire Jones on Building Healthy Relationships with Food and the Power of Community Support
    In this episode, Donna interviews Claire Jones, who has held various roles in public service, including as a prison officer, arrest referral worker, and part-time firefighter, as well as 20 years as a senior manager in the NHS, showcasing her commitment to helping others in different capacities. Claire shares her unique journey into public service, driven by a desire to help others, and discusses the challenges she faced as a single parent while navigating demanding work environments. KEY MOMENTS Claire Jones has held various roles in public service, including as a prison officer, arrest referral worker, and part-time firefighter, showcasing her commitment to helping others in different capacities. In her role as a prison officer, Claire emphasised the importance of rehabilitation and understanding the circumstances that lead individuals to prison, highlighting that many are not inherently bad but are shaped by their life experiences. After overcoming personal challenges related to weight and health, Claire transitioned into weight loss coaching, where she helps clients navigate both the physical and psychological aspects of weight management. Claire's coaching approach includes building a supportive community for her clients, recognising the importance of having like-minded individuals around to foster accountability and motivation. Claire has received awards for her work in fitness and nutrition coaching, and she actively contributes to discussions on health and well-being, emphasising the need for education on healthy living to prevent long-term health issues. BEST MOMENTS "I think the only public sector role I think I haven't really kind of got very involved in would be either probation or ambulance service. But other than that, I think I've done it all." "When we recognise that we do [have control], and we can actually do things differently in a way that helps us to build a healthy relationship with food and with ourselves, we can make choices that are more in alignment with our long-term goals." "It's all about health. Like you say, it's not about how much you weigh, what you look like. It's about being healthy, looking after your long-term health." "I realised that I'd been able to overcome something that I'd battled with for 25 years. And I see other people battling with it every day." "If you worried all the time about the risks, then you wouldn't do anything. And that's where the training comes in." ABOUT THE HOST Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.  She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service. https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/ Email: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    --------  
    46:06
  • Hannah Roper aka Lily Garland. Teaching and Policing.
    Today, Donna is interviewing Hannah Roper, a former police officer turned educator and entrepreneur. Hannah shares her unique journey from a childhood inspired by her family's law enforcement background to her experiences in teaching and policing. She discusses the challenges and rewards of both professions, including the frustrations of bureaucracy in education and the realities of law enforcement. After facing personal challenges, including domestic abuse, Hannah transitioned into a role in learning and development within the aviation industry, where she now creates training for air traffic controllers.  KEY TAKEAWAYS The journey into law enforcement was influenced by a background in teaching, where the speaker realised the limitations of the education system and sought a more impactful role in addressing societal issues. While initially enjoying the role, the speaker faced disillusionment due to organisational changes, a lack of support for vulnerable individuals, and the realisation that not all cases could be pursued effectively, leading to feelings of frustration. Hannah's own experience with domestic abuse and coercive control highlighted the challenges faced by police officers in seeking help, especially when the abuser is also a police officer, contributing to a sense of disillusionment with the system. After leaving the police force, the speaker found fulfilment in creative pursuits, including music and radio, and established a country music festival, demonstrating the importance of balancing professional life with personal passions. Hannah launched a coaching business to support creative individuals, leveraging skills gained from previous roles to help others navigate the challenges of balancing creative endeavours with other commitments. BEST MOMENTS "I have a huge justice complex, which now I know is because I have ADHD. I really struggle in situations where I can see unfairness or injustice and nothing is being done about it." "I found it very, very frustrating. I found it all-encompassing. I found it very controlling. I could not solve the world's problems just by myself." "I was given a job. A crime had been committed against an elderly lady. I started to look into it and thought, hang on a second. There's a vulnerable lady here." "But that, having that little bit of a, you know, a post-university career before going into the police, I'm pretty sure will have set you up brilliantly for going into the police." "I feel like I'm in my era, balancing it. There are moments when I question my life choices, but the reward absolutely outweighs that extra bit of stress." ABOUT THE HOST Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.  She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service. https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/ Email: [email protected] Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    --------  
    49:29

More Business podcasts

About Life After Public Service

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.  She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of these stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. However, alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity: highlighting the positive impact these individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others, have moved in or out of public service roles or have successfully introduced an additional income stream alongside your public service role, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service. Donna continues to add to her extensive academic achievements, experience and skills. She is working towards a Diploma in Coaching and Positive Psychology and offers support to individuals looking to find clarity in their careers, to reach their full career potential or to plan their exit with confidence.
Podcast website

Listen to Life After Public Service, Behind the Money and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app

Get the free radio.net app

  • Stations and podcasts to bookmark
  • Stream via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
  • Supports Carplay & Android Auto
  • Many other app features
Social
v7.20.1 | © 2007-2025 radio.de GmbH
Generated: 7/5/2025 - 4:59:30 PM