A powerful conversation on carers in the workplace, hidden leadership skills, burnout, flexible working, and how employers can support and retain carers.

Every day, around 12,000 people in the UK become carers, often right at the peak of their careers. Most don’t plan for it. Many don’t even realise they are carers. But the impact on their work, well-being, and future is enormous.

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with leadership coach and former tech MD Kirsten Hurley, who shares her deeply personal journey caring for her two autistic brothers while navigating senior leadership roles. Her story isn’t unusual; it’s the reality for millions of people quietly holding their families together while turning up to work with the same expectations as everyone else.

Together, Jeremy and Kirsten unpack:

  • Why so many carers stay invisible at work
  • The emotional and mental load nobody sees
  • The leadership strengths caring builds — empathy, resilience, clarity, perspective
  • The flexible, simple steps employers can take to support carers properly
  • Why supporting carers is a retention strategy, not a favour
  • How to spot the carers already in your organisation
  • How to create a culture where people feel safe to speak up

Kirsten also shares her practical guide, “The Hidden Leaders In Your Workforce (and How to Get the Best from Them)”, available to download with the episode.

If you care about people, culture, leadership, or retention, you need this conversation. And if you’re a carer — even if you’ve never used the word — this will help you feel seen.

Free downloads for this episode

The Hidden Leaders In Your Workforce
The Hidden Leaders In Your Workforce

Kirsten Hurley

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