Back in late 2021, we decided that instead of chatting to each other about the challenges and triumphs of people management in small businesses, we should invite you to join the conversation. And the Work Wonders podcast was born! Managing people is serious business. We bring you all the latest, practical advice without the pain. The podcast is brought to you by Aster HR https://www.asterhr.com.au/ and your hosts are Angela Gauci and Susan Rochester
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Susan Rochester Podcasts
“We’re Fans First!” We genuinely believe that the best businesses are built by fans. Rochester Groovecast is deeply dedicated to playing an active role in the culture of it's local scene. Indeed, we are a business, however, 'We’re Fans First"
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Audio podcast of speeches of Trump administration members and visiting foreign leaders
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Using HR Technology to Improve Employee Engagement
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14:09Send us a text In our final episode of our "engagement and retention" series, we also take a look at HR technology and how the right HR tech can enhance employee engagement and retention, or in some cases, hinder these efforts. Technology is rapidly transforming the way we manage people, from performance reviews to employee feedback. But with so ma…
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Guest Interview: Divinia Eather from Eather Group
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26:54Send us a text It’s interview time again! In this episode, we spoke with Divinia Eather from Eather Group and it was a great discussion. Eather Group is a family business that has been innovating cost-effective, sustainable solutions to traditional construction issues for 14 years in Western Sydney. Divinia tells us about how their small business h…
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The role of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in creating an engaged workplace
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14:33Send us a text Continuing this season's theme of engagement and retention, in today's episode we explore Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and how it's essential for building an engaged, inclusive environment that not only makes employees feel valued but also improves retention. DEI isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating a culture whe…
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Career Growth - Investing in Employee Growth for Long-Term Retention
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15:27Send us a text In this episode we explore the link between offering career growth and development opportunities to your employees and long-term retention. Employees today expect more than just a paycheck—they’re looking for growth opportunities, new challenges, and the chance to advance in their careers. In fact, studies show that lack of career de…
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The link between Mental Health, Wellbeing, and Employee Loyalty
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22:16Send us a text In this episode, we discuss employee wellbeing and how it’s linked to mental health and employee loyalty. We explore the types of wellbeing initiatives companies are adopting, and how these efforts are directly influencing employee loyalty. In today’s competitive job market, loyalty is a two-way street, and investing in well-being ca…
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How Hybrid and Remote Work Models are changing Engagement and Retention Strategies
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15:45Send us a text In this episode we discuss a topic that’s more relevant than ever—how hybrid and remote work models are reshaping engagement and retention strategies. With more companies embracing flexible work models, it’s crucial to understand how these changes are impacting employee engagement and how we can retain top talent in a virtual or hybr…
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Building a Culture of Recognition and the impact on engagement
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15:10Send us a text In today's episode we’re exploring a crucial aspect of workplace culture—building a culture of recognition. Recognition is more than just a pat on the back—it’s a key driver of employee satisfaction and engagement. Whether you’re a leader, an HR professional, or someone passionate about creating a positive workplace, this episode is …
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Guest Interview: Dr Belinda Chapman, Co-Founder of Quantal Bioscience
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23:08Send us a text It’s interview time again! In this episode, we spoke with Dr Belinda Chapman, Co-Founder and CEO of Quantal Bioscience and it was a great discussion. Quantal Bioscience is a private research laboratory focussed on doing good big things with tiny microbes, across the food, agriculture and education sectors. Belinda herself has more th…
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Leadership’s Role in Retention - how it can either foster or hinder employee retention
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24:41Send us a text In this episode we explore how leadership influences employee retention. We discuss why retaining talent is so important, the role leaders play, and how different leadership styles can either keep your employees happy or push them away. We'll be breaking this down into three main sections: why retention matters how leadership affects…
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The Science of Engagement - Understanding what truly drives employee engagement
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15:33Send us a text Welcome back to the Work Wonders Podcast! We are trying something new...in this season we will focus on engagement and retention and go into this topic in depth. In today's episode, we're exploring a topic that's crucial for every organisation—employee engagement. We’ll unpack what it is, why it’s so important, and how you can foster…
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Send us a text Season 6 begins in just 3 weeks! Angela & Susan take a quick look at what we have in store for you. We're back after the Public Holiday on Monday 14 October 2024 - with more special guests and hot topics, including your questions. You won't want to miss it! You can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a …
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S5 Ep 12: HR mistakes you can make without even knowing it
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22:46Send us a text In our final episode of the season, we again explore some HR mistakes you could be making...without even knowing it! We discuss 5 recruitment themed things and we'll tell you how you can avoid it going too far. Overlooking internal talent Not asking the right interview questions Not being aware of bias (both ways) Not planning the on…
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Guest Interview - Martin Wren, CEO of NOVA Employment
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34:40Send us a text It’s interview time again! In this episode, we spoke with Martin Wren, CEO of Nova Employment and it was a great discussion. You will not be able to walk away from this episode without feeling inspired! Nova Employment is a Sydney based disability employment service. They've supported the vocational aspirations of young people with d…
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S5 Ep 10: How to avoid an unfair dismissal claim
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29:16Send us a text In this episode, we delve into the complex world of unfair dismissal, a critical issue that we hear many business owners and managers think about, even worry about. We explains what constitutes unfair dismissal, the legal framework surrounding it, and the rights of both employees and employers. Importantly we tell you just what we do…
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Send us a text Have you ever faced the daunting task of navigating a business's restructuring or pondered the right way to handle potential redundancies? In this episode, we dig into the complexities of reshaping a company. We're not just talking about the why, but the how—offering strategic insights on realigning roles and departments. From retrai…
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Send us a text In this episode we spoke with Lisa LaMaitre. She has developed, owned, and operated four businesses in four different industries, in the Canberra region, over the last 31 years. Listen in as Lisa shares with us her journey and what she's learnt over that time in people management. Lisa is a Business Connect Business Advisor with Ente…
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Send us a text Something a little different this episode! There could be many reasons you engage an external consultant for your business - think of an Accountant, a Lawyer, Business Coach, Web Developer, SEO expert or even a HR Consultant like us at Aster HR. There is a definate business strategy behind paying someone external to your business, as…
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Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the critical topic of trust in the workplace. We explore what trust is, why it's essential, how to create and rebuild it when needed. Trust is the belief that colleagues will act with integrity and competence, doing what they say they will do. Creating a high-trust environment involves collaboration, eff…
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S5 Ep 5: Special Guest - Sheila Cabacungan
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28:36Send us a text In this episode we spoke with Sheila Cabacungan, founder of The Wealth Forum and Co-Founder of Mentor to Mentor Connect & Learn. We plan a lot of things in business, we plan our finances, our goals, even our holidays…but as a business owner, have you set a plan for the end of your business or the end point for yourself in your busine…
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S5 Ep 4: Volunteers are part of the team too
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17:21Send us a text In this episode we discuss and compare the differences (and similarities) between paid employees and volunteers. We discover there is a lot the same, especially in the areas like: Recruitment & Iinduction Accountability/performance Work Health & Safety (including psychosocial safety) By treating volunteers with the same level of prof…
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Send us a text In this episode we met Bill Carson, founder of Inspire Learning. We had a great conversation where we discussed: * The difference between empathy & sympathy * Is the term ‘mental health’ good or bad? * Practical ways to be empathetic as a manager * And the new legislation around psychological safety You can follow Inspire Learning on…
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S5 Ep 2: What you need to know about the 'Closing Loopholes' Bill
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21:20Send us a text The Closing Loopholes Bill is another change in employment legislation in Australia. In this episode, we discuss what you need to know. * What has changed * What exceptions apply * What this means for your business You can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit a question to the show? Let us know on our we…
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The Process #26: Anna Ray - How to Craft the Artifacts of Tomorrow
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53:36Filmmaker and producer Anna Ray, MFA, speaks with Siena about revolutionary storytelling, Southern Black joy, and changing the narrative. Anna’s Work: www.portraydproductions.com===Click “Follow” or the Plus Sign in the top right of your screen to subscribe to The Process on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Please leave a review for…
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Send us a text Welcome to Season 5! We started this podcast to answer your questions about managing people. And since we've begun, we have received some interesting questions. We're using the very first episode of our new season to give you some answers. Here's what you have asked: I know what hourly rate to pay my employee, but what else should I …
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Send us a text Season 5 begins in just 2 weeks! Angela & Susan take a quick look at what we have in store for you. We're back on Monday 11 March 2024 - with more special guests and hot topics, including your questions. You won't want to miss it! About this podcast The Work Wonder podcast is brought to you by Aster HR. We focus on keeping it simple …
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The Process #25: Seth Faergolzia: How to Create a Real-Life Wonderland
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41:10Multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter (and puppeteer and visual artist and father etc) Seth Faergolzia speaks with Siena about pretty much everything. Seth’s Work: https://faergolzia.com/https://multibird.bandcamp.com/https://dufus.bandcamp.com/music===Click “Follow” or the Plus Sign in the top right of your screen to subscribe to The Process…
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The Process #24: Susan Begy: How to Unlock the Mystery of Us
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1:04:08Visual artist, sculptor, and educator Su Begy speaks with Siena about grief, play, and the connective tissue that forms the mysterious collective “us.”Su’s Work:https://www.susanbegy.com/I Am WaitingBy Lawrence Ferlinghetti I am waiting for my case to come up and I am waitingfor a rebirth of wonderand I am waiting for someoneto really discover Amer…
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The Process #23: John Wilson Smith - Why Stories Hold More Power than We Think
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1:03:18Community leader and activist John Wilson Smith speaks with Siena about the power of story, community, and communication. John’s Work: Facebook Bahama Village Museum Exhibition, “Relics of a Fading Community”John Wilson Smith Key West City Commission Contact John: [email protected]===Click “Follow” or the Plus Sign in the top right of your screen t…
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Who makes you come alive? How do you know who to let in to your creative process? All this and more in this discussion of how to find your people in creativity and in life. Siena Facciolo is a musician, podcast host, educator, and writer who is fascinated by the art of being. She is honored to put this podcast out into the world. If you’d like to s…
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S4 Ep12: Reflecting on 2023 and looking ahead to 2024 HR trends
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20:57Send us a text As the year is almost at an end and a new one about to begin...do you take this time to review what you have achieved in your business this year? And make plans for next year? In this episode of the podcast, we did just that. We reflect on what we have achieved and also talk about the trends coming in to 2024. Merry Christmas from An…
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S4 Ep11: Unpack the Power of Leadership and Management in your Workplace
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16:39Send us a text Ever wondered if a simple shift in understanding could revolutionize your workplace? Well, wonder no more! Join us on this episode of the Work Wonders podcast, where hosts Angela and Susan unravel the mysteries of leadership and management, transforming your professional playbook. In the Spotlight: Manager vs. Leader Angela and Susan…
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S4 Ep10: Unveiling the Hidden Threats in Workplace Safety
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20:54Send us a text Imagine a workplace where everyone feels safe, where the lines of communication are wide open and the structure is crystal clear. It's when psychosocial safety is prioritized. In this discussion, we break down the complexities of psychosocial safety, a fundamental concept in Australian workplace law, pivotal to every business. Unveil…
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The Process #21: Margot Lasher - You Already Know What You’re Doing
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47:48Margot and Siena discuss what the writing process is really like. How do our brains work while we write? How does the creative process change as we age? Is there any value in adjusting the tone of your writing based on where you’re submitting? This fascinating conversation covers all of that, and so much more. Margot’s Work:Book - https://www.amazo…
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Send us a text The Secure Jobs Better Pay legislation is the biggest change in employment legislation in Australia in over a decade. There is a lot involved, but in this episode we break it down to what you need to be prepared for next. Specifically we explore new limitations being brought in around Fixed Term Contracts from 6 Dec 2023. We discuss:…
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S4 Ep 8: Do we need to go back to the office?
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20:17Send us a text Have you heard the talk about going back to the office now? Have you heard stories of how many offices are vacant whilst we've become comfortable working remotely? In this episode we discuss the question - do we need to go back to the office? and..why? We give you practical tips to help negotiate this with your team if you plan to re…
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Send us a text In this episode we met James Parnwell, Director of The Online Co and host of the 'Digital Marketing That Puts People First' podcast. We had a great conversation where we discussed: * Using values in your business for more than your website! * Managing a remote workforce * Benefits of a healthy culture for more than just your team * A…
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S4 Ep 6: Using the probation period to your advantage
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15:02Send us a text Do you use a probation period in hiring staff for your business? In this episode we explore the topic of a Probation Period including: What it is Why you would use one How long it is What you do in that time; and How to include it in your offers of employment You can find the show notes for this episode here Would you like to submit …
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Send us a text In this episode we met Sarah Hunter, Founder of Aurora Transformations. Sarah is also Leader Mentor at the new Upstairs Co-working space and sits on the Board of Rural Aid, AG Institute and has previously been a facilitator for the Australian Government's Entrepreneurs' Programme. We had a great conversation where we discussed: * The…
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The Process #20: Kijana Crues: How to Find Your Path
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41:46Is it possible that the imperfect can be perfect? How do you know you’re on the right path? How do you use your gifts to the fullest? Who is God, anyway? Photographer, musician and magazine CEO Kijana Crues begins to answer these big creative questions and more in this inspiring conversation. Kijana’s Work:Website: Kijanacruesimaging.comBe Brave Ma…
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S4 Ep 4: HR mistakes you can make without even knowing it
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16:07Send us a text In this episode we explore some HR mistakes you could be making...without even knowing it! We discuss 5 things to discuss and we'll tell you how you can avoid it going too far. You don't know what you don't know...so we're here to help discuss these with you so your business isn't at risk of not being compliant. You can find the show…
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The Process #19: How to Use Boundaries to Combat Burnout
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8:52Siena discusses boundaries: What are boundaries? How do we deal with guilt after disappointing people? How do boundaries help us avoid burnout?Siena Facciolo is a musician, podcast host, educator, and writer who is fascinated by the art of being. She is honored to put this podcast out into the world. If you’d like to support The Process, and listen…
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Send us a text In this episode we interviewed Sallina Jeffrey, Founder of The Mentoring Movement. We had a great conversation where we discussed what makes a high performing team, how leaders can engage and retain employees. Sallina shares the findings of her research and gives some great tips of what you can do in your workplace no matter the size…
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S4 Ep 2: Secret HR tools we use...and you can too!
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17:39Send us a text In today's episode we unlock the door and let you inside Aster HR and tell you about 6 tools we use in our professional to help us in our work and also provide high quality and insightful information and advice for our clients. You may haven't have thought of these before but trust us when we say they can save you time, money and giv…
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The Process #18: Sally Louise - How to Create Your Ideal Life
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55:19Sally Louise, singer-songwriter and entrepreneur, unpacks how to create the life you really want to live, and discusses what it REALLY means to be a freelancer. Join Sally’s course, Becoming a Freelance Musician, and enjoy 20% of your purchase with exclusive code THEPROCESS20.You can listen to Sally’s music, watch her perform, and catch her next li…
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Send us a text Welcome to Season 4! We started this podcast to answer your questions about managing people. And since we've begun, we have received some interesting questions. We're using the very first episode of our new season to give you some answers. Here's what you have asked: What if someone resigns while doing higher duties? Is a new employe…
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Send us a text Season 4 begins in just 4 weeks! Angela & Susan take a quick look at what we have in store for you. We're back on Monday 11 Sept 2023 - with more special guests and hot topics, including your questions. You won't want to miss it! About this podcast The Work Wonder podcast is brought to you by Aster HR. We focus on keeping it simple s…
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Send us a text In this episode, we meet Chris Barton and hear about his commitment to raising awareness about mental health (you may have recently seen his achievement mentioned on the 6-o'clock news!). But Chris has also achieved a lot in his career and as a business owner and we were lucky enough to get the chance to interview him about all of it…
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Siena discusses perfectionism, and offers up questions we can use to reflect on our own relationship with perfectionism. Siena Facciolo is a musician, podcast host, educator, and writer who is fascinated by the art of being. She is honored to put this podcast out into the world. If you’d like to support The Process, and listen to exclusive content …
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S3 Ep 8: Secure Jobs Better Pay changes you need to know about now
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14:46Send us a text The Secure Jobs Better Pay legislation is the biggest change in employment legislation in Australia in over a decade. There is a lot involved, but in this episode we break it down to what you need to be prepared for next. Specifically we explore new entitlements beginning 6 June 2023: * Changes to parental leave * Changes to flexible…
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S3 Ep 7 Today's guest: Gabrielle Benkovich from Judge Accountants
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19:49Send us a text In this episode we met Gabrielle Benkovich, Director of Judge Accountants in Penrith, NSW. We had a great conversation where we discussed: * Her journey going from being an employee of the business to part owner of the business * What she's learnt about managing a team * How to maintain a positive workplace culture Check them out on …
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