Why It’s Time to Rewrite the Rules of Work with Nyree Ambarchian

28/10/2025 27 min Temporada 2 Episodio 8
Why It’s Time to Rewrite the Rules of Work with Nyree Ambarchian

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Episode Synopsis

We kick off this episode with Amy and Nyree’s trip down memory lane, all the way back to hypnobirthing class and WhatsApp business masterminds. That instant “skip the small talk and go straight to heavy breathing” connection is the foundation for a raw, open conversation on why the food industry’s old rules aren’t working — especially for working parents.Nyree opens up about her slow-burn realisation that work rules—full-time as default, “competitive” salary secrecy, presenteeism—aren’t natural laws. In fact, many were dreamed up by power holders decades ago and still weigh us down like an invisible rucksack. She talks about Jack and Grace’s bold approach: making part-time the standard, pushing radical flexibility, and refusing to pretend everyone fits the mould. But breaking the rules isn’t just about rebellion—it’s about rewriting them for real people, not just the status quo.The conversation gets honest about why so many of us—especially women and parents—feel like we’re failing when the system is stacked against us. Amy and Nyree discuss how lockdown forced change, and why so many food businesses are sliding right back to the old inflexible ways. They cover the traps of “unlimited holiday” policies and the bittersweet reality that sometimes you have to live (not just write) new rules. Nyree’s campaign for salary transparency, #SayThePay, gets a spotlight, and listeners are challenged to notice absurd workplace rules, shift what they can, and model bold boundaries for others—because small changes can make a big difference.Whether you run a team, work on a factory floor, or you’re just exhausted by the pressure to “fit in,” this episode serves up real talk and practical encouragement.  Timestamps 00:00:11 Amy welcomes listeners and introduces Nyree.00:02:22 Focus on breaking rules at work and Nyree’s passion for rewriting the playbook for working parents.00:03:27 Discussion on flipping job norms—part-time as default, questioning 37.5-hour rule, and how invisible workplace “microplastics” shape us.00:06:14 Nyree’s personal shift: realising it wasn’t her failing, but systemic work rules, and discusses the power of talking to others.00:07:13 Lockdown as a leveller—closing gaps in flexible working and shifting professionalism.00:08:10 Jack and Grace’s remote-first team, co-working spaces, and individualised flexibility.00:09:10 When rule-breaking throws people—why some crave rules and how good rules can help, but “old-school” rules need challenging.00:09:52 Experiments with unlimited holiday—why it didn’t work, and the importance of enforcing breaks.00:11:18 Cultural challenges of walking the talk—Nyree’s struggle with guilt even in her own rule-breaking business.00:14:40 Coaching insights: dropping the “baggage rucksack” and letting go of workplace conditioning.00:16:21 Salary transparency campaign: #SayThePay—why “competitive salary” is bonkers, and how hiding pay increases inequality.00:19:01 Takeaways for listeners: It’s not you, it’s the system. Small acts can challenge workplace norms; start where you are.00:21:52 Modelling boundaries at work, being visible about parenting needs, and the radical power of honesty.00:23:54 Perspective on generational shifts—Gen Z, talent strategy, and why food retail and manufacturing must change to attract the best.00:24:15 Example from the police—structural change is possible everywhere, if there’s leadership will.00:25:33 Plug for Jack and Grace—purpose-driven comms for organisations doing good, recent British Tomato Fortnight campaign.00:26:41 Reflection on walking the talk and the ongoing work of living your company values. Links and Resources:Website Link: https://fearlessfoodies.co.ukFB Link: https://www.facebook.com/thefearlessfoodiepodLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thefearlessfoodiepod“Say the pay” video: https://www.jackandgrace.co.uk/saythepay/You can follow us here on Instagram: @thefearlessfoodiepodFind Amy on Instagram or LinkedIn for further support with industry coaching and facilitation.Microsearch Laboratories sponsors the Fearless Foodie Podcast https://micro-search.co.uk/

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