APositive Insights

In this episode of APositive Insights, host Darren Cottrell sits down with Khanh Pham from Bullhorn to explore what the recruitment data is really telling us as the industry heads toward 2026.They unpack why fewer candidates are working with recruiters, how expectations around speed and transparency have shifted, and where AI is already making a measurable impact across the recruitment lifecycle. Drawing on Bullhorn’s GRID Talent Trends, the conversation looks at how leading agencies are using automation to improve candidate experience, free up recruiter time, and build stronger relationships with clients and talent.The episode also dives into generational differences, including why Gen Z is currently the least satisfied group and why that presents a real opportunity for agencies willing to adapt. A practical, data-led discussion for recruitment leaders looking to stay competitive in a tougher, faster-moving market.

In this episode, Kamal Founder Guy Day joins us to unpack how data and real-time insights are transforming the recruitment and labour hire industry. Guy shares why he built Kamal, the gap he saw in recruitment tech, and the metrics agency owners should actually be paying attention to.We discuss common data misconceptions, the early warning signs leaders often miss, and which performance indicators matter most in a slow market. Guy also reveals what future-ready recruitment firms will be tracking in the years ahead and the key advice he’d give agency owners planning for sustainable growth.A must-listen for recruitment leaders who want clearer data, stronger decisions and a competitive edge.

In this episode of Apositive Insights, Kim Seeling Smith joins us to unpack the disruptions transforming recruitment. From AI and talent shifts to reimagined leadership. Hear how her 9 Keys can help agencies stay agile, human, and future-proof for 2035 and beyond.Powered by Apositive, helping recruitment and labour hire businesses grow stronger, smarter, and more sustainably. Follow us on LinkedIn and Youtube.

Compliance is not just a box to tick. Done well, it can become a powerful competitive advantage. In this episode of APositive Insights, Darren Cottrell sits down with Tania Evans, Co-Founder and CEO of WorkPro, to explore how embedding compliance into your DNA from day one sets agencies up for sustainable growth.Tania shares insights on scaling smart, reducing risk, and using automation to streamline onboarding and screening. She also explains how technology can transform compliance from a burden into a value driver, improving efficiency for recruiters and confidence for clients.

Ben Wood believes scaling a recruitment business is not about growing fast, it is about growing smart. In this episode, he shares how recruitment founders can build businesses that are profitable, sustainable and ready for exit.Darren Cottrell talks with Ben about shifting from being a top biller to building high-performing teams, the importance of having a clear strategy, and how to prepare your business for long-term success.

Steve Tolen doesn’t believe in scripts or shortcuts. He believes in showing up, knowing your value, and building real relationships.In this episode, he chats with Darren Cottrell about how business development has evolved, why your personal brand matters more than ever, and how to master modern BD without losing the human touch.Steve also shares his six pillars for success in sales, his thoughts on AI in recruitment, and why his event Change the Game is focused on connection over competition.If you’re in sales or recruitment and want to do it better, this one’s a must-listen.

Erin Devlin believes high performance isn’t about finding unicorns, it’s about building the right environment. In this episode, she shares how she’s created a culture of accountability and support inside her agency. Darren Cottrell sits down and talks with Erin about the importance of values alignment, how to set a clear social contract with consultants, and why trust is the real differentiator. Erin also discusses her career transition program for athletes, the reason she wrote her book Get the Job You Really Want, and how her early career as a ballerina shaped her leadership style.

In this episode of APositive Insights, we sit down with Pete Watson, long-time agency owner and founder of Recruitment United, to talk about the power of community in the recruitment space. Pete shares the stories that sparked Recruitment United, why he believes the “lone wolf” recruiter is no longer the future, and how genuine collaboration is helping agency owners save time, grow faster, and stay sane. From WhatsApp groups that respond faster than Google, to members even  offering financial support, this is the kind of recruitment network you actually want to be part of.