Best REC Scale Podcasts (2026)

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Episode 72: 2025 Recruitment Roundup – Why human insight still matters in a tech-driven market 30:45

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8d ago30:45

30:45

In the final Talking Recruitment podcast of the year Neil Carberry OBE, REC Chief Executive, is joined by Maxine Bligh, REC Chief Membership & Innovation Officer, to reflect on a challenging but pivotal year for recruitment. They explore what’s held hiring back in 2025, where confidence is starting to return, and how recruiters are adapting their b…

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Episode 71: Compliance – what’s on the horizon for 2026? 48:00

28d ago48:00

48:00

In this episode, REC Chief Executive Neil Carberry OBE is joined by three industry specialists: Daniel Haslam, Chief Business Development Officer at Giant Group, Sebastien Sauca, CEO of SafeRec and Paul Chamberlain, Head of Employment at JMW. Together they unpack the major compliance and regulatory changes set to reshape the recruitment landscape i…

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Episode 70: Five legal updates that could affect your recruitment business in 2025 and beyond 37:43

2M ago37:43

37:43

In this episode, Neil Carberry is joined by Melissa Mhondoro, Legal Advice Manager at the REC, to discuss the significant regulatory and market changes anticipated to shape the recruitment sector in 2026. They discuss how evolving legislation, from tax and data protection to fair work and digital identity, is reshaping the way agencies, contractors…

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Episode 69: Bridging the gap: wellness, workforce, and what’s next for the NHS. 34:52

2M ago34:52

34:52

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Suhail Mirza, Global Wellness Speaker, Healthcare Expert & Staffing Sector Board Advisor, about how workforce wellbeing and sector transformation intersect in today’s challenging environment. They explore how the UK staffing industry is evolving in response to market pressures, workforce shortages, and the…

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Episode 68: Future-proofing recruitment: AI, adaptability and growth 33:44

3M ago33:44

33:44

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Hung Lee, curator of Recruiting Brainfood, about the changing landscape of recruitment and how agencies can adapt to new market realities. They discuss the impact of global economic shifts, technology innovation and how recruitment businesses can thrive through transformation and collaboration.Key topics i…

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Episode 67: Recruitment reimagined: From AI tools to offshore growth strategies 29:22

3M ago29:22

29:22

In this special episode of the #TalkingRecruitmentPodcast, Kate Shoesmith is joined by Ross Thompson, Executive Manager at REC business partner Infinity Staff Global. Our expert explores Recruitment reimagined, from AI tools to offshore growth strategies and how AI is reshaping the recruitment industry.…

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Episode 66: How AI is reshaping recruitment: Insights from RECLive25 33:32

4M ago33:32

33:32

️ In this special episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry introduces a standout session from RECLive25, where our expert panel explored how AI is reshaping the recruitment industry. Hosted by Kate Shoesmith (Deputy CEO at the REC, the conversation features insights from Annie Andrews (Chief Executive, Curo Services), David Stott (…

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Episode 65: Risk, Reform & Recruitment: The future of umbrella models 35:11

4M ago35:11

35:11

In this episode, Neil Carberry sits down with Matt Fryer, Managing Director at Brookson Group, to unpack the upcoming changes to umbrella company regulation and what they mean for the recruitment industry. They explore the implications of the draft umbrella tax rules due April 2026, focusing on the introduction of Joint and Several Liability (JSL) …

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Episode 64: how technology and innovation are redefining USPs in a changing market 33:07

5M ago33:07

33:07

In this episode, Neil Carberry OBE sits down with Colin Gunnell, CEO of Liquid Friday, to explore how businesses stay competitive in a shifting landscape. They dive into: The evolution of technology to support unique brand propositions Deploying new tech to stay ahead How USPs adapt in changing markets Driving commercial innovation amid disruption…

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Episode 63: Trade routes and pitfalls: what UK recruiters need to know about the US market 38:03

5M ago38:03

38:03

In this episode, Neil Carberry sits down with Hayden Boilini, Director of Financial & Professional Services (North America) at the UK Department for Business and Trade. They explore the realities facing UK recruitment agencies expanding into the US market, from navigating regulatory complexity to bridging cultural gaps and staying competitive. Lear…

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Episode 62: Racing to the top not the bottom: holding value in a price driven market 24:10

6M ago24:10

24:10

In this special episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry introduces a valuable conversation from RECLive25. The session, hosted by Lorraine Laryea, Chief Standards Officer at the REC, features guest speakers Colin Gunnell, Chief Executive at Liquid Friday; Michelle Mellor, Chair of the REC and Director and Founder of Cummins Mellor…

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Episode 61: The Employment Rights Bill exclusive with Justin Madders MP 25:52

7M ago25:52

25:52

In this exclusive episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry sits down with Justin Madders MP, Minister for Employment Rights, Competition and Markets for a timely conversation exploring the Government’s employment agenda and the future of work in the UK. With the Employment Rights Bill on the horizon and his recent fireside chat at …

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Episode 60: Fit for the turnaround: building scalable, profitable recruitment agencies 30:43

7M ago30:43

30:43

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry sits down with Duncan Wyeth, Partner Manager at Vision33, a Sage Partner, to explore how recruitment agencies can take control, get lean, and grow smarter in today’s shifting market. From finance transformation to data-led decisions, this episode is packed with practical insight.…

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Episode 59: Rethinking recruitment for a future-ready workforce 43:49

8M ago43:49

43:49

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast Neil Carberry talks to Jo Major, Founder of Diversity in Recruitment. They discuss the evolving role of tomorrow’s recruiter, from transactional hiring to strategic talent architect and reengineering recruitment practices for a skills-first future.By Recruitment & Employment Confederation

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Episode 58: Navigating the recent legal changes and what they mean for you 34:33

9M ago34:33

34:33

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast REC Legal experts Lorraine Laryea, Chief Standards Officer and Melissa Mhondoro, Legal Advice Manager sit down with Kate Shoesmith Deputy CEO to discuss the latest legal and Employment Right Bill changes.By Recruitment & Employment Confederation

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Episode 57: The power of communication: Scaling a successful recruitment business 26:00

9M ago26:00

26:00

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Laura Clark, CEO of OA Group and an REC business member. They explore the journey of scaling a business from 6 to 50 people, navigating an MBO, and the vital role of communication in building a successful company.By Recruitment & Employment Confederation

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Episode 56: How is automation transforming hiring and empowering candidates in the UK? 31:43

10M ago31:43

31:43

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Chris Milligan, CEO of Konfir. They discuss how Konfir’s technology supports the candidate credential verification process, putting the power of data back in candidates' hands. They go on to discuss: The latest automation trends transforming hiring and onboarding processe…

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Episode 55: The changing cost of business: taxes, talent & the UK’s economic shift 34:20

10M ago34:20

34:20

In this episode of the #TalkingRecruitmentPodcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Raj Lal, Senior Sales Director at Totaljobs. They dive into the recent increase in National Insurance contributions, how these changes are affecting businesses and examine the growing disconnect between employee-valued benefits and employer offerings, considering strategie…

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Episode 54: Going beyond the placement and elevating recruitment through strong business strategy 34:42

11M ago34:42

34:42

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry speaks to Ben Browning, Founder of Resonant, a business consultancy that supports recruitment firms to address their growth challenges. They discuss why recruitment businesses must shift toward a more strategic approach to revenue generation and what recruiters might be missing when …

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Episode 53: Breaking barriers – how employers can create meaningful opportunities for young people 32:21

11M ago32:21

32:21

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Nish Mayor, Director of Employer Engagement & Partnerships at Youth Futures Foundation. They dive into the impact of Youth Futures Foundation’s work and how it is helping young people, especially those from marginalized groups, access the labour market. In this episode th…

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Episode 52: Beyond the hype: How AI and verifiable credentials are transforming talent acquisition 29:49

11M ago29:49

29:49

In this episode of the Talking Recruitment Podcast, Neil Carberry speaks with Etan Bernstein, Co-founder and Head of Ecosystem at the Velocity Network Foundation. They go beyond the hype on how AI is truly impacting the talent acquisition market, what verifiable credentials (VCs) are, and their potential impact. In this episode, we cover: What veri…

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Episode 51: Shaping recruitment’s future: insights from Bev White on AI and human-centred strategies 35:02

12M ago35:02

35:02

Our first episode of the Talking Recruitment podcast for 2025 hears from a speaker that truly does what they love and ensures it creates a difference for the future. Bev White, Chief Executive Officer of Nash Squared sits down with Kate Shoesmith, REC Deputy CEO to chat about her career journey, the importance of personalisation and prioritising hu…

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Episode 50: REC round-up: highlights, challenges & the road ahead 37:24

1y ago37:24

37:24

In the final episode of 2024, the REC’s formidable duo, Neil Carberry and Kate Shoesmith, sit down to look back at the highlights, the political shifts, the challenges, and how we have supported members throughout the year. They’ll go on to talk about what’s in store for 2025 from the REC and how we are making the sector’s voice heard.…

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Episode 49: Navigating the future of staffing: compliance and the power of technology 24:41

1y ago24:41

24:41

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Mark Kieve, CEO of UK & Ireland of REC business partner Pixid Group. They discuss the importance of compliance in an evolving world, navigating the challenges of cross-border staffing and leveraging technology. In this episode, we discuss: Agility, scalability, and flexibility: in uncertain times, the abil…

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Episode 48: Empowering people, elevating standards: The Mixxos way 37:42

1y ago37:42

37:42

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Gemma Downing and Chris Mapp, Co-owners of REC member, Mixxos Group. They discuss their business journey and how driving standards as a recruitment agency has empowered them to aim higher. In this episode, we discuss: How Mixxos has grown in terms of people, technology, and personal branding. How they bala…

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Episode 47: Purpose-driven recruitment: building impact and opportunity 32:23

1y ago32:23

32:23

In this episode, Neil Carberry speaks with Karen Young, Social Purpose Lead at Hays, about how recruitment companies can find and embrace their social purpose. They discuss the increasing significance of purpose in the recruitment sector and its influence on attracting and supporting talent. Key topics include: The vital role of social purpose in r…

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Episode 46: Mastering the negotiation game: the RAD approach 44:41

1y ago44:41

44:41

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Giles Morgan, Founder and Managing Director of REC business partner Kahvay. Kahvay are a negotiation training, coaching and consulting provider, on-hand to help you become a skilled negotiator. They discuss the art of negotiation with a focus on the RAD (Relationship Awareness Demand) approach. Learn how to s…

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Episode 45: Leading beyond limits: innovating recruitment and retaining top talent. 33:29

1y ago33:29

33:29

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Andrew Tallents, Leadership Coach and Founder of Tallents Partnership. They discuss the importance of staying ahead of shifting client expectations and ensuring you retain top talent. In this episode, we discuss: What issues businesses can face when relying too heavily on outdated recruitment methods and fail…

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Episode 44: Debunking new and existing technology (AI/ML) and should recruiters be worried? 32:45

1+ y ago32:45

32:45

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith talks to John Buyers, Partner and Head of the International AI team at Osborne Clarke. They discuss what makes artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) different from any other technology and how UK businesses should manage their own use of AI. We discuss: What makes artificial intelligence or machine le…

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Episode 43: Why #TempWorkWorks for individuals, for business and for the economy 28:10

1+ y ago28:10

28:10

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Shazia Ejaz, Campaigns and Insights Director here at the REC. They discuss our newest campaign ‘Voice of the worker’ and why temporary work is a vital part of today's labour market; driving economic growth and getting people into work. In this episode we discuss: Why #TempWorkWorks for individuals, for busine…

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Episode 42: AI in recruitment: boosting efficiency, reducing bias and shaping the future 40:16

1+ y ago40:16

40:16

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Founders Gary Elden and CEO Dan Malka of Hire Genius, a cloud-based recruitment business toolkit provider which aims to help recruitment agencies of all sizes streamline their operations. They discuss the role and the opportunity for enhancing efficiency by using AI in recruitment. In this episode we discuss:…

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Episode 41: Global recruitment insights: Transforming relationships and expectations in the UK. 37:41

1+ y ago37:41

37:41

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Rhona Driggs, Chief Executive Officer of Empresaria. They discuss the global perspective on UK recruitment and what the primary differences are between the market in the UK and in other locations, like the US. In this episode we discuss: The profile of the Empresaria’s business and where it’s headed. The fund…

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Episode 40: Driving a winning business: Business development for high performance! 27:23

1+ y ago27:23

27:23

In this episode, Neil Carberry talks to Brad Shackleton, Motivational Sales & Leadership Coach. They discuss the current issues impacting new business growth in recruitment and how to get your team match-fit for winning new profitable clients and business. In this episode we discuss: The leadership challenges facing recruiters right now when winnin…

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Episode 39: Your General Election analysis and what it means for recruitment 44:32

1+ y ago44:32

44:32

In this episode, we bring you a special edition of our Talking Recruitment podcast with REC campaigns and policy experts Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive and Kate Shoesmith, REC Deputy Chief Executive. They discuss the results of a momentous General Election, what it means and its impact on the UK recruitment industry and labour market.…

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Episode 38: Navigating economic challenges: late payments, contract risks and insurance strategies 31:42

1+ y ago31:42

31:42

In this episode, Maxine Bligh, Chief Membership & Innovation Officer steps in for Neil Carberry to talk to Peter Stoll from REC business partner Marsh Commercial. They discuss whether the economic climate is leading to clients' late payment of invoices and the potential risk of bad debts. In this episode we discuss: Are clients imposing more string…

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Episode 37: Talent talk: navigating education recruitment challenges 31:30

1+ y ago31:30

31:30

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Gary Williams, Chief Commercial Officer from Welsh member New Directions. They discuss overcoming challenges and finding the right talent for the education sector within the devolved nation. In this episode you’ll hear about: How to overcome the top recruitment challenges HR leaders face…

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Episode 36: Navigating recruitment challenges: skills shortages and upskilling 32:09

1+ y ago32:09

32:09

In this episode Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Sarah Wright, Director - Indirect Sales at REC business partner TotalJobs. They discuss the findings of the Hiring trends index produced by TotalJobs.By Recruitment & Employment Confederation

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Episode 35: Mental health and your journey unique: begin building resilience 36:59

1+ y ago36:59

36:59

This podcast discusses mental health and suicide, which may be distressing. Listener discretion is advised. Seek support if needed.In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Mike Duma, advocate for mental wellbeing in the workplace and founder of Miindset, a personal wellbeing companion app. They discuss how destigmatise and high…

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Episode 34: Thriving through turmoil: mastering wellbeing in high-stress times 36:00

1+ y ago36:00

36:00

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith, Deputy CEO, steps in for Neil Carberry, to talk to Katie Maycock, Founder of Get Your Sh*t Together and GYST Wellbeing. They discuss the importance of wellbeing during times of high stress and high pressure all year around, not just during #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth. In this episode we discuss: Why it's important f…

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Episode 33: Domestic abuse and the roles and responsibilities of employers 37:41

1+ y ago37:41

37:41

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Sharon Livermore MBE, Founder & DA Campaigner and Ayesha Fordham, Membership & Partnerships Manager at the Employer’s Initiative on Domestic Abuse. They discuss the impact of domestic abuse on employees and the important role employers play to both victim and perpetrator. In this episode…

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Episode 32: Is Tech and AI going to take over the recruitment industry? 26:08

1+ y ago26:08

26:08

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Miles Beckwith, Assistant Director at the Department for Business and Trade. They discuss the importance and impact of technology on recruitment and professional services. In this episode we discuss: Why the Government sees professional services firms like recruiters as a priority to the…

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Episode 31 Navigating the April legal changes that will impact your business and workers 29:25

1+ y ago29:25

29:25

In this episode, Kate Shoesmith, Deputy Chief Executive steps in as host, to chat to Lorraine Laryea. REC’s Chief Standards Officer, to make sense of the important legal changes that came into effect in April 2024. In this episode we discuss: How to use rolled up Holiday Pay and the impact of this legislation The impact of the increase to National …

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Episode 30: Creating business advantage through strong recruitment partnerships 26:10

2y ago26:10

26:10

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to REC’s Maxine Bligh, Chief Membership & Innovation Officer. They discuss the importance of high-quality recruiter services, how to build strong relationships outside of the hiring process to support the long-term growth of businesses and how to use the Aim Hire guide/toolkit as a recruite…

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Hmbr Arc Advice on Negotiating with Debtors for Successful Debt Recovery 3:14

2y ago3:14

3:14

Unlock the secrets of successful debt recovery with expert insights from Hmbr Arc. In this podcast, discover strategic tips on negotiating with debtors, building positive relationships, and leveraging technology for optimal results.By hmbrarcofficial

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Episode 29: Empowering change: unveiling workplace activism and trends in recruitment and beyond. 36:05

2y ago36:05

36:05

In this episode, REC Deputy Chief Executive, Kate Shoesmith steps in for Neil Carberry to talk to Dan Robertson Global MD at FAIRER Consulting. They discuss the current trends driving change within the business and how grassroots activism within the workplace is driving ED&I changes from the workforce up. In this episode we discuss: The current tre…

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Hmbr Arc Insights on The Role of Creditors in Effective Debt Recovery 3:47

2y ago3:47

3:47

Tune in to Hmbr Arc's latest podcast, where he delves into the intricacies of effective debt recovery. With keen insights, Hmbr Arc explores the crucial role creditors play in navigating the complex terrain of lending and recovering debts.By hmbrarcofficial

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Hmbr Arc Insights on the Common Challenges Faced in Debt Recovery 4:03

2y ago4:03

4:03

Join Hmbr Arc Insights for a deep dive into the dynamic world of debt recovery. In this podcast, we unravel the common challenges businesses face, offering expert solutions. From communication barriers to economic shifts, we share valuable strategies to navigate the complexities.By hmbrarcofficial

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Episode 28: REC Manifesto: Dynamic labour markets for growth 41:20

2y ago41:20

41:20

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Shazia Ejaz, REC Campaigns and Insights Director. They discuss why publishing our Manifesto was vital for the election year ahead and the important key asks that drive change for the labour market.By Recruitment & Employment Confederation

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Episode 27: Decoding social mobility and its impact on recruitment 33:48

2y ago33:48

33:48

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Sarah Atkinson, Chief Executive of the Social Mobility Foundation. They discuss why social mobility is so important and how socioeconomic background can impact recruitment. In this episode find out: How recruiters can support social mobility and ensure their clients are reaching candidat…

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Episode 26: Breaking barriers: navigating change in recruitment & STEM 33:21

2y ago33:21

33:21

In this episode, Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, talks to Matthew Howard Wragg, CEO at Gattaca. They discuss how the recruitment industry has changed over the last 10-15 years and how Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) in STEM is driving economic change. In this episode, you’ll hear about: The level of EDI in Engineering over the last 10-15 …