Data Protection Made Easy: Episode 210

Are Verbal Discussions Caught by the GDPR?

On Friday, 8th March, we hosted Episode 210 of the Data Protection Made Easy podcast — another packed session of GDPR Radio, our fortnightly deep dive into the biggest headlines and hot topics in the world of data protection and privacy.

Hosted by Phil Brining, Joe Kirk, and Caine Glancy, this episode delivered a healthy blend of practical insight, thought-provoking discussion, and plenty of live audience participation from our growing community of data protection professionals. We were once again joined by over 100 live listeners, all contributing ideas and questions via our interactive Microsoft Teams chat.

What We Discussed

1. Are Verbal Discussions Caught by the GDPR?
This episode’s title topic sparked a lively conversation. Our hosts explored whether verbal exchanges — such as internal meetings, phone calls, and spoken instructions — fall under the scope of the UK GDPR. The discussion unpacked key principles such as the definition of “processing”, whether recording or note-taking changes the legal position, and how organisations should manage verbal communication when it contains personal data.

This sparked some brilliant insights from both the hosts and the live audience. We covered scenarios in HR, support desks, and customer service, offering practical advice for DPOs and compliance professionals who might be navigating grey areas in their organisations.

2. Prince Harry and the Visa Controversy
We also turned our attention to the news story making international headlines: Prince Harry’s visa application and the allegations that contradict information he disclosed in his autobiography. Our team explored the privacy, transparency, and data-sharing implications of the case, and how international jurisdictions handle cross-border data issues differently — a useful case study in the growing complexities of public disclosure and personal data rights.

What’s Coming Up Next: Episode 211 – Becoming an Impactful DPO

Next Friday, 15th March, we’re proud to host Episode 211 of the Data Protection Made Easy podcast – a special session titled:

“Standing Out as a DPO – What Makes a High-Quality Data Protection Officer”

Whether you’re an experienced Data Protection Officer, a practitioner looking to step up, or someone hiring for DPO roles, this is a session not to be missed.

We’ll cover:

• What makes a great DPO stand out in today’s landscape
• The skills and attributes that employers are really looking for
• Career development tips for DPOs – from training to certifications and soft skills
• How to differentiate yourself during job interviews
• What to say (and what not to say!) when looking for your next opportunity
• Key qualities that help DPOs influence, lead, and deliver real change within organisations

This session will be hosted by Phil Brining, Caine Glancy, and Joe Kirk, and is aimed at anyone working in or alongside data protection, whether you’re job hunting, recruiting, or simply looking to refine your skills.

At Data Protection People, we’re always on the lookout for bright and brilliant DPOs to join our team. If you, or someone you know, is actively looking for a new challenge in data protection, feel free to send a CV to one of our team members or reach out via our website.

Why Join the Podcast Live?

Our podcast is more than just a listen-along — it’s a live, interactive community of like-minded professionals. Each week, our hosts are joined by a growing audience of data protection, privacy, and cyber security practitioners, who participate live via Microsoft Teams.

By joining us live, you can:

• Ask questions in real-time
• Get involved in live polls and discussions
• Access links to useful resources shared during the session
• Network with others in the field

And best of all — it’s completely free to join!

Can’t Make It Live?

No problem. Every episode of the Data Protection Made Easy podcast is uploaded to Spotify, Amazon Music, and all other major streaming platforms. So whether you want to rewatch a session or catch up on our back catalogue of over 200 episodes, it’s all available for you — whenever it suits your schedule.

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Data Protection Made Easy

By practitioners, for practitioners. Making complex subjects easier, every Friday.