Fireside Business Advice
    Podcast

    From Homeless Actor to Human Resources Hero: The Unexpected Inspiring Story of Nathan Atkinson

    Nathan discusses his journey from aspiring actor who ended up homeless in Sydney to becoming a Director and co-Founder of Strategic HR Supports, helping businesses with their HR needs.

    Fireside Business Advice

    · 12 min read

    From Homeless Actor to Human Resources Hero: The Unexpected Inspiring Story of Nathan Atkinson
    Nathan discusses his background in acting and his transition to the business world. He shares his childhood dreams of becoming an actor and his experience studying acting in Sydney and ending up homeless. Nathan talks about the challenges he faced in pursuing his acting career and how he eventually realised it wasn't his calling.

    The Journey to HR

    He then shares his journey toward his current role as a Director and co-Founder of Strategic HR Supports. Nathan also discusses his involvement in supporting local businesses and his passion for helping others achieve their goals.
    Nathan shares his journey from aspiring actor to HR professional and entrepreneur. He grew up in Bundaberg, Queensland, and moved to Sydney to pursue acting, but it didn't work out. He then decided to study teaching but realised it wasn't for him. Nathan eventually found his way into HR and started working in a small electrical business, where he faced challenges in managing people.
    He later joined a disability provider and experienced the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Nathan then took a position at the local council. After a few more job changes, he decided to start his own business with the support of his partner.

    Building Strategic HR Supports

    Nathan shares his experience of starting his own business, Strategic HR Supports, and the challenges he faced. He emphasises the importance of finding mentors and seeking help from others in the industry.
    Nathan also discusses the unique approach of strategic HR, which focuses on proactive solutions and win-win situations. He highlights the significance of communication and building genuine connections with clients and employees.

    Future Plans

    Nathan shares his plans for the future, including rebranding his side business Strategic Business and expanding their networking events around Australia. He encourages young men pursuing entrepreneurship to have a positive mindset and see others as potential collaborators rather than competitors.
    Check out Nathan's Business online here: strategichrsupports.com

    Key Takeaways

    • Sometimes our initial career choices don't work out, and that's okay
    • Finding a career that aligns with your values can be more fulfilling than chasing money or status
    • Facing challenges and stepping out of your comfort zone leads to growth
    • Building credibility and a strong reputation opens doors
    • Finding mentors and seeking help from others is crucial for success
    • Strategic HR focuses on proactive solutions and win-win situations
    • Effective communication and genuine connections are key
    • Having a positive mindset and seeing others as potential collaborators leads to success

    Sound Bites

    "If it doesn't work, it doesn't work and it didn't work, but at least I know that I tried."

    "If it's not working, adapt your strategy, have a reflection, realize what's not working, and then work out what you can do to make it work."

    "I thought HR was this wonderful thing where just people get out the trumpets and they blow their horns when you walk past them and you're all hugging each other."

    "Finding the people that can help you is really awesome."

    Episode Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Experience
    • 09:39 Transitioning to the Business World
    • 16:25 Adapting to Challenges and Finding New Paths
    • 32:12 Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone
    • 38:51 Starting a Business and Building Credibility
    • 46:44 The Unique Approach of Strategic HR
    • 56:42 The Power of Communication and Genuine Connections

    About the Author

    Fireside Business Advice, author

    Fireside Business Advice

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