Conversations on Wellbeing at Work: Recent Episodes
John Brewer
How do you make wellbeing a strategic priority and help organisations and their people thrive? Listen to Conversations on Wellbeing at Work where we interview the world's brightest minds from the world of business and academia to bring you the knowledge, insight and solutions to create long-lasting change to your workplace.
Have you ever caught yourself chasing the ever-elusive state of happiness, only to find it slipping through your fingers? Fear not, because Professor Dr. Jennifer Gutman is here with her book "Beyond Happiness: Six Secrets of Lifetime Satisfaction," offering a roadmap to a more grounded and enduring state of being. In a heartfelt discussion, Dr. Gutman debunks the myth of perpetual happiness and instead guides us through the development of skills essential for lifelong contentment. From confronting our fears to steering clear of assumptions and the all-too-common trap of people-pleasing, this episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights for better navigating the waters of personal and professional life.
Relationship dynamics take center stage as we explore how a mother-daughter duo redefined fulfillment by setting clear boundaries and opting for quality time. Gratitude emerges as a powerful transformative tool—not just a buzzword but a practice that can reshape our interactions and stave off entitlement. The art of decision-making is dissected as a crucial element of satisfaction, teaching us to take ownership of our choices and confidently carve a path forward. Dr. Gutman's expertise shines as we dismantle the fear that often hinders our decision-making, revealing how reframing our perspective can liberate us from the shackles of hesitation.
The episode wraps with concrete strategies to help you cross the finish line of your daily endeavors, emphasizing the value of authenticity in task completion and delegation. By acknowledging the tasks we truly will not undertake, we can remain true to ourselves and avoid the common pitfall of overcommitment. The narrative culminates in the profound reflection on the importance of self-connection, a keystone for cultivating personal satisfaction that goes deeper than fleeting happiness. Join us for a journey inward, where you'll emerge equipped with the tools to build a life rich in satisfaction and self-fulfillment.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Here we discuss the seduction of loneliness and the need to take risk if we are to connect with others. Phil explains that we need to create an environment that is as comfortable as possible for them to be themselves and connect with others.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Unlock the secrets of Activity Based Work (ABW) with our special guest, Hardeep Matharu who is a Senior Consultant for Veldhoen Company.
As a Change Management expert, Hardeep supports organisational transition to new ways of working, underpinned by a strong sense of community, collaboration and enhancing wellbeing for employees. He envisions a better world of work that fosters genuine connections and empowers individuals to be at their best.
Hardeep is passionate about people development, wellbeing, diversity and inclusion. These passions fuel his support for leaders to drive meaningful and sustainable organisational change. He advocates for the power of a desirable workplace and its impact on enhancing employee wellbeing.
To find out more about Veldhoen + Company please click here.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Unlock the secrets of enhancing workplace wellbeing with our special guest, Julie Fabsik-Swarts, CEO of the Employee Assistance Professionals Association. In our engaging conversation, Julie unveils the transformative journey of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), from their inception focused on addiction recovery to their current comprehensive support systems, designed to bolster employee performance and company success. Discover the intricacies of EAPs' response to critical incidents, and understand the delicate balance they strike in providing immediate support while connecting employees to longer-term resources.
As we navigate the waters of professionalizing EAPs, Julie shares invaluable insights on the necessity of specialized training for EAP specialists, diverging from the assumption that all therapists are cut out for this unique role. We delve into the problems that arise when EAP services are not fully utilized, and the newfound strategies to educate managers on tapping into these resources wisely. Our discussion transcends mere implementation to probe how EAPs demonstrate their worth to an organization through real, measurable outcomes.
In this episode, we also tackle the timely subject of EAPs during the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging the surge in demand and the outstanding support these programs provided. As we ponder the future of mental health support, we reflect on the intersection of artificial intelligence and the human touch essential in EAP services. Wrapping up, we highlight the irreplaceable value of human connection, expressing gratitude for Julie's expertise and looking ahead to continue this vital conversation on fostering well-being at work during our future events.
You can find out more about the Employee Assistance Professionals Association at
https://eapassn.org/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Discover how the digital realm is shaping our well-being with guest Bailey Parnell, Founder and CEO of Skills Camp.
In our rich and engaging discussion, Bailey brings to light the profound effects of generative AI and the complexities of social media on our mental health. As we peel back the layers of our online lives, we confront the harsh realities and potential threats that lurk behind our screens, from the unsettling spread of deepfakes to the insidious nature of social comparisons.
Journey with us through the intricate web of digital connections as we examine the ways in which our self-perception and relationships are influenced by the curated 'highlight reels' we see online. We scrutinize the burdens of public scrutiny on individuals, particularly public figures, and consider how this relentless spotlight can skew our sense of self and warp our interactions. Our dialogue traverses the challenging landscape of social media, emphasizing the need for perspective and self-awareness in navigating this new normal.
Wrapping up with a touch of optimism, our episode shifts to the brighter prospects AI brings to the professional world. Bailey discusses how AI is starting to revolutionize work-life balance, offering hope for a more efficient and mentally fulfilling future. By harnessing the power of technology, we envision a workspace where productivity and personal well-being coexist harmoniously, marking the dawn of a new era in professional development and digital wellness.
You can find out more about Bailey's organization SkillsCamp at https://www.skillscamp.co/
If you'd like to learn more about her charity work with #SAFESOCIAL go to https://safesocialmedia.co/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
As we navigate the professional landscape, the unspoken trials of menopause can steer the careers of countless women into uncharted waters. Melanie White, co-CEO and co-founder of Sage Women's Health, illuminates the intricate ways perimenopause and menopause ripple through the workplace. Through our discussion, we unravel how these life stages not only challenge the individual but also the collective fabric of corporate culture, potentially leading to a loss of expertise as some women feel compelled to take early retirement.
Melanie's insights underscored a 'perfect storm' brewing in corporate corridors—where exhaustion, shifting family dynamics, and workplace demands converge, testing the resolve of many women in midlife. We shared personal experiences and dissected how employers and male colleagues can contribute to an environment that supports and understands the nuances of this transition. The conversation also highlighted innovative strategies, like mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, that have the potential to alleviate some of the most challenging symptoms, advocating for a corporate culture that prioritizes health as much as performance.
In our final reflections, we delved into the transformative journey that life's trials can inspire, discussing the redefinition of purpose and the paths that unfold as a consequence. With Melanie, we traversed topics from maintaining optimism to embracing change, drawing from our varied experiences to underline the shared threads of human resilience. Our dialogue, bridging continents and cultures, culminated in a celebration of the strength found in life's transitions and the commonality of our experiences. Tune in for a heartfelt exchange that not only informs but also emboldens appreciation for the intricacies of life's voyage.
You can find out more about Melanie and her work at https://www.sagewomenshealth.com/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
It's not often when hosting or listening to a podcast I learn a new word. Yet our conversation begins in this episode with a discussion of the idea of "monachopsis" which I had not heard before my conversation with Dr Mark Brown a few weeks ago. Monachopsis describes a particular feeling of not belonging that is way more common than you might think. You might even experience it....
Our conversation quickly turns to exploring the transformative power of belonging as our guest unravels the psychology behind feeling in sync with your workplace—or the distress of falling out. Our enlightening exchange promises to equip you with the tools to navigate the complex terrains of workplace well-being and connection, as Dr. Brown illuminates the effects of monachopsis—a pervasive sense of not fitting in—and its profound influence on both individuals and teams. Drawing on his rich military experience, we discuss both the close-knit camaraderie of the Marine Corps and the deep, sometimes elusive sense of belonging that is essential for success for any team.
As we traverse the critical role of human connections and peer support at work, Dr. Brown offers invaluable strategies to combat the loneliness that plagues many modern workplaces.
We dissect the current state of the diversity movement, acknowledging the pushback and discussing how to cultivate an inclusive culture that goes beyond initiatives to foster true belonging. Delving into the intertwined concepts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, this episode serves as a guide for leaders and individuals alike seeking to create environments where every team member thrives, both professionally and personally, shaping a more effective and healthy organization.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Ever wonder about the symphony of benefits music can orchestrate in our lives, particularly in the workplace?
Terry Stuart of Deloitte joins us to share his harmonious expertise from his The Awesome Music Project and work with NYC based Reverberation, illuminating how melodies and rhythms aren't just soul-soothing, but also brain-boosting and performance enhancing.
Our conversation harmonizes the insights from "Reverberation: Do Everything Better with Music" , that highlights the science-backed benefits of music on mental health, creativity, and even corporate productivity. We also celebrate the arts' broader impact on the brain and discuss the essential integration of these findings into the corporate, and educational spheres.
Striking a chord on stress management, we emphasize the delicate balance between intense work stressors and essential recovery, with a spotlight on the pivotal role of quality sleep. Terry shares his personal anecdotes how tuning into calming music and ambient sounds can transition us into a tranquil slumber. We discuss the necessity of disconnecting from stimulating content pre-sleep, and instead, sinking into fictional worlds or utilizing AI sound technology to achieve the restorative rest that primes us for peak performance.
Lastly, we discuss the collective power of music in building communities, shared emotions, and perhaps a future where music is as much a part of therapy as it is of our playlists. We tease the brain waves of upcoming projects poised to intertwine music with healing and personal growth, targeting schools and corporations with the magic of virtual reality. Tune in as we reveal how these endeavors promise a new approach to mental health and community-building, with a special invitation for you to become part of this groundbreaking movement.
(The audio opens with a description of the book, Reverberation. Unfortunately due to technical difficulties we lost the video for this episode)
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Uncover the secret to a vibrant work-life balance with Janet Omstead, behavioral change coach and enthusiast of playful living, as she unveils how infusing your routine with joy can transform your approach to health and productivity.
Janet's journey from the high-octane world of Olympic Games production to nurturing wellness through play provides a fresh perspective on how we can rewire our attitudes toward exercise and embrace the rejuvenating power of rest. With her expert insight, we discuss the symbiosis of work, well-being, and the natural cycles of exertion and recovery that mirror the athletic world.
Ever thought of making chores a blast? Imagine jamming out to your favorite rock tunes while tidying up, turning a mundane task into a mini-concert.
This episode is a treasure trove of such playful strategies, including wisdom from her book, The Play Book, How to Get in the Habit of Good Health, which lists 150 easy ways to introduce more movement into daily life. We delve into how the essence of play isn't just for kids; it's a vital, often overlooked component of adult health. Plus, we shed light on the social benefits of play, as highlighted by Dr. Stuart Brown and Dr. John Rady, and discuss how initiatives like Red January can kick-start a year of wellness through community and shared joys.
As we wrap our conversation, Janet and I cast a spotlight on the growing impact of Red January and its partnership with the Genwell Project, demonstrating its commitment to not just physical fitness, but mental well-being and community connections. We share anecdotes about the personal rituals that keep us grounded and challenge you to think about that one indispensable element in your own life that maintains your equilibrium.
Tune in for an episode that promises a burst of inspiration and practical tips to make every day a playful adventure.
You can learn more about Janet and her work on her site at https://janetomstead.com/
Find out about RED January Canada at https://join.redjanuary.com/canada
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Imagine a workplace where leaders prioritize their employees' well-being, setting boundaries and routines to prevent burnout and stress. Imagine a workplace where leaders recognize that performance and wellbeing are like two sides of the same coin.
Exploring the dynamics within organizations, we journey alongside Terry Stuart, Senior Partner at Deloitte, who shares his personal experiences and passion for this subject. We discuss the dual-nature of stress, its impacts and the necessity of stress coupled with recovery for evolution and improvement.
Terry delves into work-life balance, exploring the concept of load management popularized by NBA player Kawhi Leonard while playing for the Raptors, and its potential applications in our daily work. The conversation also highlights the role of technology in managing stress and promoting recovery, emphasizing a healthier work culture that encourages you to work smarter, not harder.
In our final discussion, we emphasize the significance of wellbeing and its connection to performance in a post-COVID world. Terry imparts insights on how leaders can foster a sense of community and connectedness, and the impact of remote work on well-being, career growth and its implications for gender and diversity.
Join us, as we discover how organizations can demonstrate their support for their workforce by prioritizing well-being, even during times of adversity.
(This is the first of to conversations with Terry - in the next one Terry will share his passion for music and how together with partners he has applied this to create a transformational approach to wellbeing based on music)
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
This episode is a recording of a virtual fireside chat from our first LATAM Summit in Bogota, Colombia in November.
Ever felt like you're burning the candle at both ends as an entrepreneur or leader?
Well, you're not alone. Join us as we sit down with Lauri-Ann Ainsworth, CEO of the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship, who's no stranger to the gnawing grind of burnout.
Drawing from her personal experience, Lauri-Ann decodes the often overlooked issue of chronic stress and burnout. She underscores the importance of prioritizing our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing to sustain success - in a world where how you grow as a leader is as important as the performance of the business.
We get into the meat of the matter, discussing the three cardinal pillars of self-care - mind, body, and soul. We dissect how a deep understanding of our strengths can usher us from a state of burnout towards bliss. Lauri-Ann shares insightful thoughts on recognizing burnout signs and how to navigate life while juggling multiple roles.
As we delve deeper, we unravel the importance of service, self-awareness, and self-love in the context of business. How these elements can foster innovation and help you prioritize wellbeing. It's all about taking ownership of your happiness and remembering that self-love is a critical factor in this process.
If you missed our LATAM Summit or attended and want to hear this session again, tune in to this enlightening conversation that may very well change how you approach your entrepreneurial journey.
You can find out more about The Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship at https://bransoncentre.co/
Visit Lauri-Ann's site featuring her work on wellbeing, happiness and mindset at https://thisishappier.com/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Can you imagine a world where chronic pain doesn't dictate your daily life and work routine? That's the reality we strive to understand in our fascinating conversation with the founder of Amelio Health, Kathy Hubble.
Chronic pain is a silent epidemic, quietly causing worldwide disability and impacting individuals, their families, and workplaces. Not only does it disrupt lives, but it also presents a significant financial burden on employers and healthcare systems globally. Together we peel back the layers of this complex topic, delving into the far-reaching effects of chronic pain and its subjective nature and its links to loneliness and grief.
Join us for a broad discussion of chronic pain management, acknowledging the inherent problems with opioid reliance and exploring the potential dangers of cannabis and alcohol use for pain relief. We also uncover strategies for holistic pain management, centered on mindfulness and personal values.
The second half of our journey with Kathy pivots towards the power of self-management and well-being, underlining the importance of listening to our inner voices and understanding our needs. We also discuss the role of technological aids, like wearables, in tracking our progress and the surprising links between pain, loneliness, and grief.
This episode is a vital exploration, essential for anyone battling chronic pain or supporting a loved one through this journey. Tune in and empower yourself with a refreshed understanding and a new approach to chronic pain.
Find out more about Kathy and her work with pain at https://www.ameliohealth.com/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Imagine utilizing artificial intelligence to improve wellness in your workplace - sounds like a dream, right? Well, it's no longer just a dream.
Join us as we chat with Meg Price, the trailblazing co-founder, and product director of Noacoach, a tech startup that's reshaping the wellbeing journeys of employees. Noacoach has harnessed the power of AI to provide accessible and low-cost coaching round the clock. Listen in and get a first-hand account of how this innovative platform combines neuroscience-backed activities with AI coaching to revolutionize the wellness space.
But that's not all, we dive into the fascinating area of cognitive behavioral coaching and the role AI can play in it. We question whether AI is a mere tool, or can it truly be a technology partner fostering a human connection? We take on the weighty responsibility that tech developers bear to create tech that doesn't just dazzle us, but genuinely serves us. But, we also confront the potential pitfalls - could we become too reliant on AI? How does it impact our psychological safety at work?
Our conversation further turns towards the ever-important balance between technology and nature. We ponder on how tech not only enhances connections but also prompts us to disconnect and appreciate the world outside the screens. The icing on the cake is a sneak peek into the upcoming conference summit and the considerable value it promises. So, tune in as we traverse through the intricate world of AI and wellbeing at work. This episode promises to stimulate your mind, challenge your perspectives, and leave you with food for thought.
You can contact Meg and find out more about Noacoach on their website at https://noacoach.com
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
What happens when the relentless pursuit of success leaves you feeling burned-out and empty?
Our guest, Jan Heckscher, Director at Jan Heckscher Solutions, knows first- hand what it’s like to fall victim to workplace stress and the toll it can take. She shares her personal struggle with self-esteem and how this experience with burnout at a renowned hotel chain has crafted her approach to work and life today.
Jan discusses the importance of understanding that everyone experiences burnout differently, and how managing it involves not just a change of pace, but in many cases, a shift in self-perception.
Leadership isn’t just about driving results; it’s about nurturing one’s well-being and setting the tone for a balanced, thriving work environment. Jan emphasizes how critical it is for leaders to prioritize their well-being and provides practical tips on achieving this, such as time spent in nature, regular exercise, cultivating a strong support system, and rest.
Our conversation concludes with Jan discussing the power of her Reiki based energy work both in person and online, a practice she adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic. She explains how this energy work has allowed her to foster deeper connections and support for individuals across the globe.
Join us on this podcast to get a glimpse of how Jan’s journey from burnout to thriving at work can inspire you to find your own path to balance and fulfillment. Better yet attend our upcoming Melbourne Summit, meet Jan and experience her energy work in person at the event.
You can find out more about Jan and her work at https://janheckschersolutions.com/energy-balancing-sessions-jan-heckscher/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Have you ever wondered how the yuletide season might be affecting your wellbeing and mental health? Enter Alan Cox, the genius behind Ever Yellow, a mental fitness app that’s taking a fresh approach to mental wellness.
This episode is an illuminating journey into Alan's motivation for creating Ever Yellow and his observation of a gap in the effectiveness of many mental health apps. We dissect the stressful realities that often accompany the festive cheer and offer a suggestions for how employers can support their people during these times.
Navigating the post-holiday period is no easy feat, especially when dealing with social anxiety intensified by the pandemic. This conversation will equip you with the tools to mentally prepare for these situations. We shine a light on the often glossed-over issue of holiday loneliness and how periods of reflection can sometimes spiral into regret. Whether you're an individual trying to manage your own mental health or an employer looking to better support your team, this conversation provides invaluable insights.
As we wrap up, you'll learn about practical steps that workplaces can take to ensure employee wellbeing. We stress the importance of inclusivity for people of different faiths and communities during holiday celebrations. Focusing on the Ever Yellow app, we discuss how it builds resilience and improves mental health.
Alan also offers a peek into his personal wellness habits. This episode isn't just another holiday podcast, it’s a lifeline for those seeking to navigate the holiday season with their mental health intact. Tune in for a timely discussion on managing mental health during the festive season.
For more info on Ever Yellow and how it can help improve your mental health and wellbeing check out their site at https://everyellow.com/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Get ready for a transformational journey into the realm of workplace wellbeing with Lawrence Mitchell, the CEO of Wellbeing at Work APAC and Founder of Finding Equilibrium. Lawrence will share many of the wellbeing insights he has developed over the years as well as share some of the highlights you can expect at the APAC Summits in November.
You will gain a new perspective on holistic wellbeing, that extends beyond mere physical health to encompass a myriad of factors like job design, environment, and technology. We'll also put the spotlight on Australia's current economic scenario and its influence on well-being investments.
Broaden your understanding of wellbeing as we traverse through the landscape of connection and balance. Lawrence, with his extensive expertise, will lead us through the strategic blueprint of creating positive and solution-oriented teams, the pillars of sustainable performance, and the importance of rest - a lesson he's gleaned from his experiences with elite athletes.
We'll also be challenging conventional notions around workplace wellbeing. Lawrence and I will take a hard look at psychological safety and burnout, examining the role of employers in designing jobs and allocating resources that support employee well-being. As the world grapples with the return-to-office debate, we'll be addressing this pressing concern. We'll be wrapping up our conversation with the importance of mental control and adopting a mindful approach towards what we feed our minds.
So, tune in for this enlightening discussion and walk away with actionable strategies to prioritize wellbeing in your life and workplace.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
What if there was a way to manage all aspects of your well-being, not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, occupationally, financially, socially, environmentally, and spiritually?
Join us as we sit down with our insightful guest, Niya Bajaj, a holistic yoga therapist and leadership coach, who enlightens us about the eight dimensions of wellbeing and how these are intertwined in her yoga practice. Beyond the physical stretching, yoga, as Nia elaborates, encompasses practices like asana for physical wellbeing and yamas for social wellbeing. Her unique approach broadens the benefits of yoga, making it a comprehensive tool for holistic self-nourishment.
As we delve deeper in our conversation with Nia, we explore the profound connection between yoga, sustainability, and narrative competence. We also tackle the challenges of setting boundaries and advocating well-being in a work setting. How leaders can mirror wellness, and how cultural change can be fostered through interventions like yoga therapy are also discussed. This is a conversation that unravels the idea of well-being not just as an individual pursuit, but as a collective endeavour that can transform work culture and environments.
I'm sure after listening to this conversation you will see why I am so looking forward to sharing the stage with Niya who will be my co-host at our Toronto Summit on September 26
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
What if we could shift the narrative around mental health at work, making it just as important a conversation as productivity or profit? Would this make our workplaces safer, more inclusive, and ultimately more successful?
In our candid discussion with Mara Grunel, Executive Director of the Centre for Suicide Prevention and Interim CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association Alberta Division, we unravel these thought-provoking questions and delve into the harsh realities of suicide in Canada.
Mara guides us through the correlations between depression and suicide, shedding light on the stigmatized language we often use when discussing this sensitive subject. We further explore the role of the Centre for Suicide Prevention, the impact of COVID-19 on mental wellbeing, and the critical importance of fostering a culture of openness around mental health in the workplace. With Mara's insights, we delve into the profound emotional journey of those who have lost someone to suicide, the paradox faced by individuals contemplating suicide, and the media's role in suicide reporting.
In our riveting final chapter, Mara debunks some common misconceptions, responding to suicidal disclosures, and emphasizes the importance of a thoughtful, open dialogue. We highlight the resources available through the Centre for Suicide Prevention, and discuss the crucial role of professional psychologists in processing stories and pain surrounding suicide.
This is a conversation about empathy, understanding, and the power of open dialogue, that you won’t want to miss.
You can find out more about the Centre and access resources on their website at https://www.suicideinfo.ca/
Those in crisis can call 1.833.456.4566
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
If you have ever wanted to know more about how shifts in approaches to well-being are changing the workplace then you need to listen to this conversation with Chris Cummings. As Founder and CEO of Wellbeing at Work World, Chris is uniquely well placed to identify and understand the global changes taking place that underly the increased emphasis on workplace wellbeing and how top performing companies are responding. Chris shares his insights, the genesis of his deep commitment to workplace wellbeing, and the evolution he has witnessed and helped drive in the last ten years.
For Chris wellbeing has never been about wellness initiates but rather a fundamental rethinking of work, leadership and culture. And it has always been about the performance of your people and your company.
Chris delves into the value of acknowledging neurodiversity, particularly the role introverts play in shaping an organization. Learn why it's not always the loudest voices we need to heed, and how a work culture that encourages everyone's contribution is key.
The Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly impacted our perspective on work-life balance, and as we transition back to office life, leaders need to consider their employees' varied needs. We discuss the varying reactions to this change, underlining the importance of a holistic view on wellbeing at work.
Chris emphasizes the need for a transformation in traditional work cultures, with a focus on creating an environment where people can truly thrive. Tune in and discover how investing in well-being at work can make a profound difference - not just in terms of employee engagement but in the business performance of your organization.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
What does it take to cultivate a truly inclusive workplace? How can employers better support the mental health of their employees? Listen in as we sit down with Julie Dennis, the Head of Inclusive Workplaces at ACAS, to get her unique insights on these crucial questions.
Julie opens up about her personal wellbeing practices, the importance of walking, the joy derived from spending time with her grandchildren, and its impact on her work-life balance. We also reflect on the significant role that the murder of George Floyd played in sparking a renewed interest in diversity and inclusion.
We move on to discuss a study conducted in partnership with Health at Work that emphasises the importance of early interventions to support employees' mental health. We dig into the issue of reasonable accommodations and how they can be instrumental in retaining valuable employees. We touch on the crucial role managers play in facilitating these adjustments and explore the new guidance ACAS has released on this front.
As we wrap up our conversation, we tackle complex topics, such as workplace adjustments for employees with protected characteristics and the rise in calls to ACAS regarding sexual harassment. We underline the need for inclusive workplace cultures, free from harassment and discrimination. We further delve into the importance of being open about menopause, viewing it through an intersectional lens, and how grief policies in organisations can be informed by Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI).
So, are you ready to re-envision your workplace? Let's get started!
You can find out more about ACAS on their site at https://www.acas.org.uk/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Sue has been a frequent speaker at our summits in the UK and Australia. We caught up with her at the IPPA’s 8th World Congress on Positive Psychology in Vancouver where she was due to speak.
What followed was a whistle-stop tour of positive psychology with Sue as our guide as she shared her wisdom on how positive psychology is a critical component of wellbeing. After a brief introduction defining the term, we covered topics such as:
Authenticity
Grief
Toxic Positivity
Leadership
Burnout
Resiliency v resourcefulness
Leadership
Flourishing
I was amazed at how much ground we covered in this one conversation and the amount of practical advice Sue was able to provide on such a wide range of issues.
You can find out more about Sue and her work at https://langleygroup.com.au/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Faith Holloway is the Compassionate Employers Programme Lead at Hospice UK in which role she consults extensively with organizations about how they can improve their bereavement policies and take better care of grieving employees.
Despite loss and grief being universal experiences, too few employers treat grieving employees in a humane and compassionate manner, relying instead on outdated policies and procedures that lack the human touch. And Hospice UK's recent research shows most employees would consider quitting over a poor bereavement experience.
In addition to discussing what it means to be a compassionate employer, Faith and I talk about how leaders and colleagues can best support those grieving, the
need to ground bereavement policy in DEI and some of the common myths about loss and grief.
Grief is a natural response to loss but has a big impact on people's wellbeing. I hope this powerful conversation inspires wellbeing leaders in organizations to revisit their bereavement policies and begin a broader discussion of grief as part of wellbeing
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Leora will be one of our speakers at our upcoming Canada Summit in Calgary on Sept 28. She joined us for an in-depth conversation on Psychological Safety and her work promoting well-being at Cenovus.
Among other things we discussed the distinction between Psychological Health and Safety, the role of managers and leaders in creating an environment of wellbeing in an organization, and some of the risks that can threaten employee wellbeing.
It's clear from our conversation that Leora is passionate about creating a workplace where everyone feels they belong and can flourish and she offers great practical advice on how you can achieve these goals in your organization
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Leora will be one of our speakers at our upcoming Canada Summit in Calgary on Sept 28. She joined us for an in-depth conversation on Psychological Safety and her work promoting well-being at Cenovus.
Among other things we discussed the distinction between Psychological Health and Safety, the role of managers and leaders in creating an environment of wellbeing in an organization, and some of the risks that can threaten employee wellbeing.
It's clear from our conversation that Leora is passionate about creating a workplace where everyone feels they belong and can flourish and she offers great practical advice on how you can achieve these goals in your organization
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
In a follow up to his presentation at our Singapore Summit Dr Ranney joins the podcast to explore further is application of biohacking both in his own life and through his work at Human Edge.
Our conversation begins with a simple definition of biohacking and how anyone can use this approach to increase their wellbeing. For Dr Ranney the key is personalization - of assessing your own state of wellbeing and indentifying the strategies and activities that will yield the best results. Armed with technology and coupled with measurement and mindset, increased wellbeing is within the reach of everyone.
We aslo explore the issue of longevity, its impact on the individual, society and employers and how we need to shift our thinking away from simple "lifespan" to "health span".
This episode contains lots of suggestions on how to improve your health, from hydration to sleep to gratitude. You can find out more about Human Edge on their site at https://humanedge.co/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
As many employers navigate the complexities of hybrid work so they have become more conscious of the wellbeing impact of the office environment. And as employees weigh the pros and cons of being in the office so they take into account the built environment and are demanding that employers create spaces that enhance their wellbeing.
Which make this conversation with Dr Gray so timely. And while we don't confine the discussion to just the environmental factors you will hear important information on how to:
Create spaces that encourage social connection - one of the most important influences on our wellbeing.
Accounting for neurodiversity to ensure you create spaces for everyone
Seize the opportunity of the moment to create awesome spaces and fix what as wrong with work before the pandemic
Understand how poor office design impacts performance and productivity
Make the healthy choice the easy choice
Make your home office a healthier place to be and work
Listening to this conversation you will see why Fast Company highlighted the work of IWBIwith an honourable mention in their recent Well Equity Rating.
You can find out more about IWBI and the documents Dr Gray mentions on their site at https://www.wellcertified.com/
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Hassan will be speaking at our Amsterdam Summit in a couple of weeks but we caught up with him beforehand to find out more about his idea of a "polycontextual" workplace that forms the basis of his ongoing PhD studies.
Through this idea Hassan grapples with the complexity of today's and tomorrow's workplace with its diversity, new technology and new work design. At the core of this approach is his belief that people need people and caring for one another is at the very heart of wellbeing.
Containing such nuggets as "We used to think of DEI as the cherry on top of the cake - it's not, it is the cake", "Life doesn't come at you, it comes out of you" and "the less we trust the more we withhold" Hassan provides essential insights into the relationship between wellbeing, psychological safety, DEI, the physical workspace and more.
Core to Hassan's approach is the need to measure what we do and he offers insight into how best to do this for wellbeing. Along the way we discuss belonging, connection and how wellbeing impacts talent attraction and retention.
That's an awful lot to squeeze into a little over half an hour. To hear more from Hassan you just have to sign up for the Amsterdam Summit!
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Oliver will be leading a Round Table at our Summit in Singapore on April 25. In this conversation we preview some of the ideas he will be sharing at the event. Our discussion includes exploration of topics such as:
- The biggest mental health challenges employees face right now
- The role of work culture in mental health
- How to overcome stigma
4. The role of the business case in securing executive support for wellbeing
5. The vital role of data and analytics to determine the effectiveness of your wellbeing strategy - How to get commitment from business leaders
Our conversation concludes with some reflection on the role of AI in wellness and how the technology might influence the field in the near future.
To find out more about Intellect and their wellbeing platform check out their site at www.intellect.co
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
After her great session at our Silicon Valley Summit in early March we just had to have Kristin join us for the podcast to discuss in more detail her approach to burnout.
While many focus on the individual's response to burnout, Kristin begins with the impact of our network and how work is organized. In an age of increased connectivity and collaboration this is an essential perspective that often gets overlooked.
During our discussion Kristin shares insights into:
- The impact of burnout and how it leads to exhaustion, cynicism and reduced effectiveness
- The role of networks and work in creating burnout and how to reduce and remove these impacts in the workplace
- How leadership needs to change to better support employees
- What individuals can do to help prevent burnout
- How to achieve a culture of psychological safety
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Geraldine participated in a great panel on DEI at our NYC Summit on March 7th and joins us here on the podcast to expand and deepen the conversation about the relationship between DEI and Wellbeing.
Geraldine shares some thought provoking ideas on identity based wellbeing, leadership, psychological safety and need to align workplace wellbeing and diversity with the organization's approach to the marketplace.
We also touch on developments in both DEI and Wellbeing in the last few years and take time to reflect on how these two areas will greatly influence The Future of Work.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
The team at Barrett Values Centre helps companies build authentic, resilient cultures based on deeply-felt values that are shared across the entire team. An inclusive, high-performance culture that creates the kind of we’re-all-in-this-together energy that’s simply unstoppable. And while Employee Wellbeing has always been a part of this they have recently launched a Wellbeing Survey.
Emma Kelly joins us in this episode for a wide ranging conversation on the relationship between the values that underpin organizational culture, individual employee wellbeing and leadership.
This leads to a lively conversation on the role of values and human connection, burnout, analytics, the need for intentionality in remote working environments and how companies' approach to wellbeing has to change in the face of the increasing expectations of employees.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
This fourth episode of Conversations on Wellbeing at Work features another speaker from our upcoming US Summits. Alexis Brown, Workplace Culture and Wellness Program Manager at the National Archives and Records Administration will join us in person in NYC on March 7.
In this wide ranging discussion Alexis shares valuable insights into empathy at work, the importance of addressing not just physical and mental wellbeing but social health as well, the need for employees to get an "emotional return" at work, and the linkage between wellness and DEI.
I loved this conversation because of Alexis's passion for the social dimension of wellness and the foundational role of DEI to creating a culture of wellbeing.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Since the advent of Covid in early 2020 we have witnessed an unprecedented increase in interest in employee wellbeing and workplace culture. As the leader in employee experience at S&P Global, Seth Fox is at the heart of a shift towards a more people centred approach to work.
In this conversation we discuss how S&P addresses the physical, mental, social and financial aspects of wellness and even touch on the spiritual dimension. We talk about how critical a seamless digital employee experience is to workplace wellbeing.
Seth believes passionately in taking a wholistic approach to wellbeing and the positive impact technology can have when implemented well.
Seth will be speaking at our 2023 New York Summit on March 7.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
As we enter 2023 after what for many was an uncertain 2022, our conversation with Serena focussed on three trends for the coming year that she identified in a recent Newsletter. These are :
- The rising use of hybrid work models
- The increasing influence of Gen Z and Gen Y
- A growing focus on mental health in the workplace
Serena shared her insights in these three areas an how they are linked and we ended our conversation with some reflections on measurement and analytics and how these can support wellbeing - the subject she will address at our Wellbeing At Work Summit in San Francisco on March 9.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world
Military veteran, Masters in Organizational Psychology from INSEAD, Ex Chief Marketing Officer, author of Dare Lead Like a Girl, and passionate advocate for creating psychologically safe work cultures Dalia is on a mission to bring more happiness into our workplaces.
This wide ranging conversation highlights her enthusiasm, energy and sheer joy for her work as we discuss leadership and empathy, the different approaches of men and women to leadership, the need for compassion at work. Her four pillars of "leading like a girl", Purpose, Perspective, Power and People offer a blueprint for how to integrate wellbeing into a culture that allows and welcomes us to bring our whole selves to work.
We also touch on the issue of toxic bosses - you won't want to miss her recommendations for how to deal with this challenging situation.
Dalia will be speaking at our 2023 New York Summit on March 7.
Find our more about Wellbeing at Work's Global Summits, our Global Hub Community of C-Suite executives and our Bespoke division at wellbeingatwork.world