Podcasts about Psychological safety

BONUS: Jochen Issing on Building High-Performing Engineering Teams In this BONUS episode, we explore the fascinating journey of Jochen Issing, an engineering leader who brings unique insights from his background as a handball player and band member to building exceptional software development teams. From sports courts and music stages to engineering leadership, Jochen shares practical wisdom on psychological safety, team dynamics, and creating cultures where the best ideas win. From Sports and Music to Software Leadership "As soon as you complain about each other, you are starting to lose." Jochen's unconventional background as a handball player and band member has profoundly shaped his approach to engineering leadership. Drawing from team sports, he discovered that frustration leads to losing in both athletics and technology work. Great players in great teams optimize for the team's results, not individual glory. This translates directly to software development where great engineers slow down to make the team faster, recognizing that collective success trumps individual achievement. The lesson from the handball court is clear: when team members start blaming each other, they create a losing mindset that becomes self-fulfilling. Breaking the 10X Engineer Myth "It's not your success that makes our success, it's our success that makes your success." The mythology of the 10X engineer remains pervasive in software development, but Jochen challenges this with insights from team dynamics. The "hero culture" in companies often emerges when systems are already broken, requiring someone to step in and save the day. While we celebrate these heroes, we forget to ask the crucial question: how did we end up needing a hero in the first place? True high-performing teams don't require heroic individual efforts because they've built sustainable systems and shared knowledge. The goal isn't to eliminate talented individuals but to ensure that even the most skilled engineers can take time off without the organization grinding to a halt. Creating Psychological Safety Through Vulnerability "When psychological safety is missing, I try to ask ignorant questions - expose myself as being the least experienced person in the room." Building psychological safety requires intentional strategies that go beyond good intentions. Jochen employs a counterintuitive approach: when he senses team members hesitating to speak up, he deliberately asks "ignorant" questions to position himself as the least knowledgeable person in the room. This modeling behavior demonstrates that it's safe to admit uncertainty and ask questions. He also builds a culture of "challenging ourselves" by implementing ritualized dissent - assigning someone the specific job of finding flaws in proposed solutions. This prevents the dangerous harmony that can emerge when teams agree too quickly without proper scrutiny. The Power of the Expectation Sheet "I want people to share with me what might even drive them away from the company." Trust forms the foundation of effective team relationships, but building it requires explicit frameworks. Jochen uses an "expectation sheet" (See a prototype here Google Doc)- a document that formalizes mutual expectations between him and his team members. This tool establishes that he wants open, honest communication about everything, including situations that might drive someone to leave the company. The key principle is that he will never share confidential information or use personal disclosures against team members. This creates a relationship where he serves as both a representative of the company when necessary and a personal advocate for his team members when they need support navigating organizational challenges. Team-Centric Productivity and Collaboration "The team is the unit of productivity and delivery, not the individual." Effective engineering leadership requires balancing individual desires with team outcomes. Jochen emphasizes that while people naturally want to say "I did this," the focus must remain on team impact. This involves creating shared understanding of collective goals while still addressing individual needs and growth aspirations. Practical strategies include using on-call rotations to identify knowledge silos, implementing pair programming and mob programming to reinforce collaborative work patterns, and designing tasks that allow individuals to take ownership while remaining embedded in team efforts. The analogy to band dynamics is apt - when someone brings a song idea to the band, it evolves through collaboration into something different and usually better than the original vision. Building Sustainable High Performance "Great engineers slow down to make the team faster - which is how we get better teams." Sustainable high performance emerges when senior engineers invest in lifting the entire team rather than maximizing their individual output. This means senior staff level engineers focus less on their personal contributions and more on forming "tribes" across teams, coaching junior engineers, and building organizational capability. The measure of success shifts from individual heroics to collective achievement - if problems consistently require the same person to fix them, the team hasn't truly succeeded in building sustainable systems and shared knowledge. Recommended Resources for Further Reading Jochen recommends several foundational books for understanding team dynamics and engineering leadership. "The Culture Code" by Daniel Coyle explores the structure of high-performing teams and debunks myths about command-and-control leadership. "Product Development Flow" by Reinertsen provides the scientific foundation behind agile methodologies and explains what teams are really trying to solve. "The Culture Map" by Erin Meyer offers insights on working with diverse cultures and backgrounds to bring out the best in each team member. "Coaching Agile Teams" by Lyssa Adkins serves as a practical guide for developing coaching skills in technical environments. And our very own Scrum Master Toolbox podcast provides ongoing insights and real-world experiences from practitioners in the field. About Jochen Issing Jochen is an engineering leader who's all about building great teams and better developer experiences. From audio tech and cloud platforms to monorepos and feedback culture, he's done it all. A former bandmate and handball player, Jochen brings heart, trust, and collaboration into everything he builds with his teams. You can connect with Jochen Issing on LinkedIn and connect with Jochen Issing on Twitter.

In this episode, I sit down with Ann Millington to dig into what leadership really looks like in the fire and rescue services today. We talk about psychological safety, building no-blame cultures, and navigating the messy reality of budget cuts and complex organizational structures. Ann shares why inclusion and well-being aren't optional extras but the foundation of effective teams, and we get into how emotional resilience and strong communication can change the way leaders show up.What really stuck with me is Ann's view that great leaders are gardeners — cultivating growth, recognizing super strengths, and creating space for people to thrive. Together we explore mentorship, coaching, feedback, and recognition, while also looking ahead to the big challenges around innovation, sustainability, and collaboration in our service. This was a conversation full of honesty and practical wisdom, and I think it'll challenge you to rethink leadership in the fire service.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREJoin me on the United for 9/11: Memorial Stair Climb – Atlanta 2026 HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydratedSend us a textSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

On this episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I sit down with Dr. Todd Kashdan, a top expert in well-being, curiosity and resilience to dive right into an engaging discussion about what makes a great conversationalist. We cover a wide range of topics during our time together, including three of his exceptional books and his Substack – Provoked.Dr. Kashdan's insights will challenge your perceptions and assumptions and provide deeper and richer insights into how we approach our personal and professional lives. We start by exploring the science of Curiosity, which he outlined in an earlier book. He also sheds light on his previous book, the "Upside of your Dark Side," exploring how traditionally ‘negative' emotions like anger can be powerful drivers of social change and effective leadership. This exploration extends to challenging the culture of toxic positivity and recognizing the indispensable role of negative emotions in personal and professional growth.Finally, we unpack the complex terrain of principled dissent. Through personal stories and real-world applications, the conversation highlights the importance of social courage and independent decision-making. Dr. Kashdan discusses how integrating dissenters with supportive allies can create a productive environment, both online and offline, and underscores the necessity of authenticity beyond performative gestures. This episode offers valuable insights into navigating leadership challenges with principle, providing a compelling roadmap for fostering positive environments where we effectively leverage the diversity of the human experience to achieve extraordinary things together.What You'll Learn- The essence of great conversationalists - The importance of social sensitivity in fostering positive group dynamics- Harnessing diverse perspectives to drive creativity and innovation.- Exploring the "Upside of your Dark Side" and how traditionally negative emotions can fuel positive social change.- The role of principled dissent in societal and individual growth- The power of alignment between your Values X ActionsPodcast Timestamps(00:00) - Curiosity as a Vital Skill in Leadership and in Life(13:59) - Navigating Diversity and Psychological Safety(20:36) - Exploring the Upside of Your Dark Side(38:50) - Challenging the Status Quo: Group Norms and Decision-Making(48:16) – The True Power of Principled DissentKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, The Art of Meaningful Conversation, Curiosity, Psychological Safety, Cognitive Diversity, Navigating Group Dynamics, Fostering Creativity and Innovation, The Benefits of a Wandering Mind, Facing the Shadow Self, The Upside of Anger, Power Dynamics, Principled Dissent, Exhibiting Social Courage, Creating Allyship, The Perils of Performative Versus Principled Leadership, CEO Success

Do you remember when the American Psychological Association came at us in 2023 and declared that middle age starts at 35? The absolute disrespect…In this episode, I'm talking about the conversations I've been having with so many of my clients that I've also been going through myself. Maybe you're feeling like:“I'm done giving 100%—even my 20% is what most people call their 100.”“I don't need another title bump. I just want to embrace enough.”“I can't deal with the gaslighting in this industry anymore.”…then you're not alone.Here's what I dive into:Why so many of us, especially women of color, are redefining success as spaciousness, rest, health, and deep relationships, not just more titles.How your ambition doesn't go away, it evolves depending on your age and stage in life. What to think about if you want more creativity, flexibility, or even to start your own business.How gaslighting in the workplace affects your nervous system, your relationships, and your sense of safety. And how to protect yourself emotionally, mentally, and legally.Why embracing “enough” isn't failure, it's freedom.Resources I Mentioned:Episode 63: How to Change Career Successfully with Ava | Spotify | AppleEpisode 79: What is Psychological Safety at Work with Chela Gage | Spotify | AppleEpisode 90: How to Start Your Business and Get Your First Paying Clients | Spotify | AppleWhere We Can Connect:Schedule a Business & Career Review call with me to see if it's a good fit to work together: elainelou.com/callRead my 300+ client reviews on GoogleFollow the Podcast on AppleFollow the Podcast on SpotifyFollow me on Instagram: @elainelou_Connect with me on LinkedIn: Elaine Lou CartasCheck out my other podcasts for Women of Color

In this episode, host Shaesta Waiz speaks with Dr. Kimberly Perkins—787 airline pilot, research scientist at the University of Washington, and fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society—about the rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion in aviation and why it matters for safety, innovation, and the next generation. Kimberly shares how DEI was often treated as a branding campaign rather than systemic change, why psychological safety is inseparable from operational safety, and how silence in the cockpit or boardroom leads to risk. She explains why inclusion should be embedded into pilot training as a required competency, why emotional intelligence belongs alongside technical skill, and how leaders can shift from “I-frame” individual fixes to “S-frame” system solutions. They discuss how DEI rollbacks reveal which organizations were truly committed, why allyship must extend to all—including men in positions of power—and the fatigue marginalized groups feel carrying the burden of proof. Kimberly closes with practical “micro-allyship” actions and advice for young women in aviation: don't conform or gaslight, strive to be an ally, and use small, consistent acts of inclusion to reshape the system itself. Chapter Breakdown 00:00 | Opening Reflections on DEI Rollbacks 01:34 | Season Seven Recap & Why This Conversation 04:44 | Introducing Dr. Kimberly Perkins 06:08 | Was DEI Ever on Solid Ground? 09:20 | Safety, Innovation, and Silencing Voices 12:41 | Psychological Safety in Aviation Teams 14:21 | From I-Frame to S-Frame: Systemic Solutions 17:33 | Allyship, Fatigue, and the Burden of Proof 21:21 | Message to Young Women Entering Aviation 24:26 | Micro-Allyship Toolkit: Small Acts, Big Change 27:15 | Rollbacks, Military Aviation, and Funding Gaps 30:46 | Final Thoughts and Call to Collective Action Follow Dr. Kimberly Perkins Website: www.kimberly-perkins.com LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Kimberly Perkins⁠⁠ Follow Shaesta Waiz Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ shaestawaiz.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Shaesta Waiz⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @shaesta.waiz⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @shaestawaiz⁠⁠⁠ Shaesta Waiz on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: YouTube (Aviate Platform)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Production, Distribution, and Marketing By Massif Studio & Production & The Tallawah Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website:⁠⁠⁠www.massifsp.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Massif Studio & Production⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ www.TallawahWorldwide.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Tallawah Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For inquiries about sponsoring the podcast, email ⁠⁠⁠⁠hello@MassifKroo.com⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unpacking psychological safety standards, leadership accountability, and building resilient, inclusive workplaces. Megan Hunter, Senior Advisor for Psychological Health and Safety at ATCO, sits down with Dr. Ryan Todd to explore how organizations can bring complex safety standards to life. With two decades of leadership in workplace wellness and as a certified national trainer, Megan shares how compliance, DEI, and leadership converge to shape healthier workplaces.Watch this episode to find out:Why psychological safety standards matter for every workplaceHow ATCO connects DEI and safety to strengthen belongingThe difference between psychological safety and psychological health & safetyWhy leaders carry more responsibility for employee well-beingHow to balance vulnerability, boundaries, and authentic leadershipWhat “weaponizing” safety standards looks like and how to prevent itWhere compliance is heading and why organizations should prepare nowMegan brings both expertise and practicality, offering organizational leaders clear steps to build psychologically safe workplaces that meet standards, foster belonging, and strengthen culture.

Shawn Dsouza: The Database Migration Disaster— Why Software Development Teams Need Psychological Safety Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes. Shawn worked with a skilled team migrating a database from local to cloud-based systems, supported by a strong Product Owner. Despite surface-level success in ceremonies, he noticed the team avoided discussing difficult topics. After three months of seemingly smooth progress, they delivered to pre-production only to discover 140 critical issues. The root cause? Unspoken disagreements and tensions that festered beneath polite ceremony facades. The situation deteriorated to the point where a senior engineer quit, teaching Shawn that pausing to address underlying issues doesn't cost time—it builds sustainability. In this segment, we refer to the episodes with Mahesh Jade, a previous guest on the Scrum Master Toolbox podcast. Featured Book of the Week: The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay Stanier Shawn discovered this transformative book when he realized he was talking too much in team meetings despite wanting to add value. The Advice Trap revealed how his instinct to give advice, though well-intentioned, was actually self-defeating. The book taught him to stay curious longer and ask better questions rather than rushing to provide solutions. As Shawn puts it, "The minute you think you have the answer you stop listening"—a lesson that fundamentally changed his coaching approach and helped him become more effective with his teams. Self-reflection Question: When working with teams, do you find yourself jumping to advice-giving mode, or do you stay curious long enough to truly understand the underlying challenges? [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

This episode tackles the leadership problem most of us are drowning in: too many priorities and not enough focus. Through a memorable card-collecting analogy, Tim and Junior show why strategy isn't about adding more: it's about subtracting. You'll hear why “if everything is valuable, nothing is,” how plural “priorities” became a modern distortion, and why the best leaders reprioritize daily, not quarterly. With practical tools like the “one thing” question, and hard-won lessons on communicating what you won't do, this conversation gives you a simple operating system for focus, momentum, and meaningful results today.

In this episode, Lauren unpacks how nervous system regulation shapes workplace culture. She explains how stress and micromanagement spread through teams, and why leaders who model calm can shift an entire organization. Lauren also shares simple rituals like intentional meeting openings, midday resets, and predictable rhythms that help teams move from survival mode to thriving together.Sign up for the University of Pennsylvania Behavior Breakthrough Accredited CourseOther related resources from Five Ives: Blog Post: Why Traditional Employee Wellness Programs Fail (And What Works Instead)Survive Mode: Recognizing When Your Organization is in CrisisWhat are the Five Ives?Podcast:No Off Switch: Why Regulation Belongs in All Your Roles"Why Wasn't I Good Enough?": Walking Away From What Wasn't Meant For YouCan't Sleep, Can't Think? Resetting Rhythms That Rule Your DayTaming Transitions: Tiny Rituals That Calm Big ShiftsSpaces that RegulatePart 2: Regulation in the Real WorldPart 1: Regulation in the Real WorldHow to Get Kids to Cooperate without Power StrugglesWhat Happens When Consequences BackfireHelping Children Catch your Calm with Nervous System RegulationPart 2: Behavior isn't the ProblemHive- The Last Stage of the Five IvesThrive- The Fourth Stage of the Five IvesStrive- The Third Stage of the Five IvesRevive- The Second Stage of the Five IvesSurvive- The First Stage of the Five IvesOur Online Programs: Behavior BreakthroughPolicing Under PressureBoard Governance TrainingUniversity of Pennsylvania Behavior Breakthrough Accredited CourseSubscribe to our mailing list and find out more about Stress, Trauma, Behavior and the Brain!Check out our Facebook Group – Five Ives!Five Ives Website websiteThe Behavior Hub blogIf you're looking for support as you grow your organization's capacity for caring for staff and the community, we would love to be part of that journey. Schedule a free discovery call and let us be your guideAs an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 

Welcome to episode 61 of Leadership Kung Fu! Jen and Sandi are talking the talk and walking the walk to bring you today's topic: why leadership teams can stall! Settle in as they chat about: Words are nice, but action is important Stalling due to fear of conflict Feeling safe in the workplace How multiple priorities can actually be a hindrance Corporate whiplash and fatigue Alignment vs. accountability The Knowing-Doing gap How to stop "The Stall" The One Hard Question What parts you actually play 6 Thinking Hats by Edward de Bono Where your bias lives Timeboxing Meeting habits and much more! Thank you so much for listening! If you like what you hear, leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform, and make sure to check out the video cast under the "Videos" tab! Connect with Jen on LinkedIn and visit her website Own Up!® Connect with Sandi on LinkedIn and visit her website Satori Consulting, Inc! Have a comment, question, or topic for Sandi and Jen? Email us at podcast@own-up.com or leave us a comment on LinkedIn. If you like what you hear, leave us a review on your favorite listening platform!

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher and special co-host Dr. Joe Grasso from Lyra Health speak with Dr. Marc Brackett, founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and Professor in the Child Study Center at Yale School of Medicine. Dr. Brackett's bestselling book "Permission to Feel" has revolutionized how we think about emotions in schools and workplaces, and his new book "Dealing With Feeling" challenges us to stop running from our emotional lives and start actually living them.Episode Highlights:Why there's no such thing as a "bad emotion" and how all feelings are simply dataThe difference between being an "emotion scientist" versus an "emotion judge"How toxic masculinity teaches men to disconnect from their emotions, perpetuating cycles of loneliness and isolationWhy "being emotional" doesn't mean you're weak—it means you're humanThe Meta Moment: A four-step process for healthy emotion regulation in high-pressure situationsHow to have difficult conversations at work without avoiding or attackingWhy bringing your whole self to work includes bringing your emotionsPractical strategies for managers to create emotionally intelligent team culturesThe importance of checking in with your emotions before they leak into unrelated situationsQuotable Moments:"Emotional intelligence... is not emotional reactivity. Emotions are on a continuum. There's a little bit of anger, which is annoyance, and there's a lot of anger, which is enraged." - Dr. Marc Brackett"Just because you're feeling strong emotions doesn't mean you're not capable. Doesn't mean you're not strong. Life is about emotions." - Dr. Marc BrackettResources:Free app: "How We Feel" (available on iOS and Android) - A mood tracking tool developed by Dr. Brackett to help build emotional vocabularyThis episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

Guy Bloom interviews Kate Atkin, a speaker, facilitator, author, and author of The Imposter Phenomenon. They explore Kate's journey from a farming background to becoming an expert in the field, discussing the differences between the imposter phenomenon and imposter syndrome, the role of external validation, and the impact of societal expectations. Kate shares insights from her research on coping strategies and emphasizes the importance of psychological courage in overcoming imposter feelings. The conversation concludes with practical advice for leaders on how to support their teams in recognizing their worth and capabilities.TakeawaysThe imposter phenomenon is not limited to women.It's important to differentiate between a phenomenon and a syndrome.External validation can be both helpful and harmful.Coping strategies can sometimes be maladaptive.Normalizing failure can help reduce imposter feelings.Psychological courage is necessary to accept one's abilities.The environment can influence feelings of belonging.Parenting styles can impact self-perception and imposter feelings.Self-handicapping behaviors can serve as excuses for underperformance.Leaders should provide evidence of why their team members are amazing, not just accolades. 

Design isn't a straight road. It's more like a maze with moving walls. In this episode, strategist Jen Briselli shows us why learning, relationships, and hidden networks matter more than best practices when navigating complex organizations.How do you thrive as a designer when the org around you is unpredictable, political, and constantly changing?Most designers hit a wall at some point in their career: their skills are strong, but the system they're working in feels impossible to navigate. Best practices don't seem to work, processes break down, and “design maturity” feels like a buzzword no one can actually define.That's where Jen Briselli comes in. With a background in physics, teaching, and design strategy, Jen helps teams understand what complexity really means and why learning is the only way through it. In our conversation, she explains how complicated and complex are not the same thing, how informal networks drive influence more than org charts, and why the real work of design is creating the conditions for growth rather than forcing outcomes.If you've ever felt stuck in a low-maturity team, frustrated by org politics, or burned out by chasing “best practices,” this episode will reframe how you see your role. Thriving in complexity and ambiguity is not about having all the answers. Instead, it's about learning how to sense, adapt, and build the great relationships that make great software possible.Take a listen to learn how to stop fighting complexity and start working with it.Topics:• 02:41 – Understanding Complexity in Product Design• 04:06 – Jen Belli's Journey into Complexity Science• 04:41 – Exploring Complexity Science in Design• 11:55 – The Difference Between Complex and Complicated Systems• 16:56 – Navigating Complex Systems in UX Design• 30:56 – The Role of Learning in Complex Systems• 34:58 – Formal and Informal Networks in Organizations• 40:57 – Understanding the Metaphor of Soil, Seeds, and Sunlight• 41:54 – Exploring Design Maturity and Emergent Properties• 43:33 – Creating Conditions for Psychological Safety and Design Maturity• 44:46 – The Role of Affordances in Design Maturity• 45:06 – Nurturing Growth in Unpredictable Environments• 50:00 – Balancing Work and Mental Health• 54:18 – The Importance of Identity and Letting Go• 57:33 – Final Thoughts on Complexity and LearningHelpful Links:• Connect with Jen on LinkedIn• Learning is the Engine // Jen's Rosenfeld Talk• Jen's YouTube channel—Thanks for listening! We hope you dug today's episode. If you liked what you heard, be sure to like and subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! And if you really enjoyed today's episode, why don't you leave a five-star review? Or tell some friends! It will help us out a ton.If you haven't already, sign up for our email list. We won't spam you. Pinky swear.• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Get a FREE audiobook AND support the show⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Support the show on Patreon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out show transcripts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Check out our website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe on Stitcher⁠

In a special series devoted to empathy in education with leaders and fellows of Transformative Educational Leadership (TEL), watch this episode to learn how restorative justice and trauma-informed somatic practices lead to collective healing.Sima Savdharia, founder of Square Root Mediation & Facilitation, reflects on their work bridging conflict resolution, spirituality, and education. They also share how their journey from studying abroad in Honduras to supporting youth in Oakland has shaped their commitment to Dr. King's vision of Beloved Community—grounded in empathy, dialogue, and love.00:00 Preview01:11 Introduction 01:46 About Sima Savdharia04:08 Sima's backstory07:05 Sima's understanding of a “Beloved Community”10:51 Understanding conflict and why it's not inherently bad14:51 Generational trauma and emotional triggers18:40 Why does “Psychological Safety” matter?20:12 Restorative practices in corporate world28:11 Why social media detoxing is a radical act of self-care30:22 The power “Restorative Circles”— and how to do them34:43 Why grounding the nervous system matters in conflict resolution37:31 What is “non-violence” in conflict resolution?41:12 Why is self-awareness the first step to restorative justice?45:35 Lessons from restorative practices and why schools need to slow down?50:01 The role of empathy in education53:34 Sima Savdharia's Purposeful Empathy storyCONNECT WITH ANITA✩ Email purposefulempathy@gmail.com ✩ Website https://www.anitanowak.com✩ Buy a copy of Purposeful Empathy http://tiny.cc/PurposefulEmpathyCA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anitanowak/✩ Instagram https://tinyurl.com/anitanowakinstagram✩ Podcast Audio https://tinyurl.com/PurposefulEmpathyPodcast✩ Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/anitanowak.bsky.socialCONNECT WITH SIMA✩ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sima-savdharia-976151246/✩ Website http://simasavdharia.com SHOW NOTES✩ Transformative Educational leadership https://www.teleadership.org/Video edited by Green Horizon Studio

Details Psychological safety is not a new term anymore, but it has matured into a foundational leadership capability, much like communication or trust no longer a “nice to have,” but a critical driver of collaboration, retention, and innovation. Drawing on Amy Edmondson's groundbreaking research and Zenger Folkman's data from 18,000 employees, they unpack the eight leadership behaviors that … Continued The post Episode 172: Why Psychological Safety Matters More Than Ever first appeared on ZENGER FOLKMAN.

In this episode of UNSCRIPTED, host Sarah Nicastro welcomes Sacha Thompson, founder and CEO of The Equity Equation, to explore why psychological safety matters more than ever in today's workplace. From building trust and fostering open communication to creating truly inclusive environments, this conversation unpacks the essential components of psychological safety and its impact on innovation, talent retention, and organizational success.

Send us a Message!This episode touches on the themes of Strengthen Culture and Practical Psychology.In this episode, we explore what infuses trauma and toxic stress into our workplaces, and examine the 3 steps to address them. This is also the first episode of our newest season (Season 4!) so thank you to everyone who as supported us on this journey.Our prescription for this episode is accept that issues like trauma and toxic stress and something that your workplace needs to address, and it is completely possible for workplaces and teams who are toxic and live with a broken culture can rebound, it just takes dedication and hard work.Past Episode Referenced:S3 E3: How Can We Prevent Psychological Injury In Our Workplace?To talk more about Psychological Safety, reach out to us at info@roman3.ca or through our LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/company/roman3Don't forget to sign up for our New Quarterly Newsletter that launched in the fall of 2024!About Our Hosts!James is an experienced business coach with a specialization in HR management and talent attraction and retention. Coby is a skilled educator and has an extensive background in building workforce and organizational capacity. For a little more on our ideas and concepts, check out our Knowledge Suite or our YouTube Channel, Solutions Explained by Roman 3.

How is AI Transforming Go To Market for B2B SaaS? Inbound go-to-market for SaaS is undergoing a major transformation. What once relied on blog posts, lead magnets, and cold outreach is now powered by artificial intelligence. AI is no longer just a content assistant. It now fuels end-to-end workflows, drives strategy, qualifies leads, and personalizes outreach at scale. SaaS teams are deploying AI agents to track LinkedIn signals, automate follow-ups, and even manage outbound efforts. This evolution is unlocking new levels of speed and scale, but it also brings real risks if automation isn't carefully managed. In this episode of the Grow Your B2B SaaS Podcast, Maja Voje breaks down how AI is reshaping inbound GTM. She shares what's working today, where teams should stay hands-on, and how to build AI-assisted systems without losing the human connection that still drives trust in B2B. If you're building or scaling a SaaS product, this is your playbook for doing it smarter with AI.Key Timecodes(0:00) - Boosting AI Content Performance & Automating Founder Workflows(0:53) - What Is AI's Role in SaaS GTM? [With Guest Maja Voje](1:48) - Is Everything Dead? Why AI Agents Are the Future of SaaS Workflows(2:55) - Multi-Agentic Workflows Explained: Tools, Agents & Human Oversight(4:28) - Why You Must Earn the Right to Automate with AI(5:27) - SaaS Automation Gone Wrong: Avoiding Enterprise Pitfalls(6:15) - AI Agents: Build or Buy? Key Considerations for GTM Leaders(6:38) - Mapping GTM Workflows: LinkedIn, DMs, Offers & Content Ops(8:00) - Real-Life AI Marketing Automations You Can Use Today(9:43) - How Many AI Agents Do You Really Need for LinkedIn & Lead Gen?(11:08) - Iterating AI Models Post-Training: Prompts, Builders & Feedback Loops(12:55) - AI Costs, Compliance & Rollouts: From POC to Scalable Deployment(15:07) - Data Security in AI: The Case for 'Least Privilege' Access(16:04) - Rule of Thumb: Don't Share Data You Wouldn't Give a Friend(16:13) - Sponsor Spotlight: SaaStock Dublin—Investor Matchmaking + Discounts(17:22) - Inbound Marketing with AI: LinkedIn Trends & Time-Wasters to Avoid(18:54) - External vs Internal Knowledge Bases: Training AI Without Garbage Input(20:31) - Why AI Design Often Fails: Creatives, Claude vs ChatGPT & Brand Gaps(21:53) - LinkedIn AI Strategy: Commenting, Publishing & Legal Risks in the EU(23:30) - AI-Powered Outbound Marketing: ICP Scoring, Lead Research & Social Selling(25:52) - Training Your Team on AI: Avoiding Content Quality Pitfalls(27:26) - Human-in-the-Loop Design: What to Automate vs Delegate(28:43) - The AI-First Founder Mindset: Culture, Talent & Psychological Safety(31:20) - AI Implementation Choices: From Prototypes to Governance Guardrails(33:29) - PR & Leadership: Why 'We Replaced 7 People with AI' Is a Bad Look(34:10) - 2-Year AI Roadmap: Think Strategically, Reflect Often, Stay Safe(36:20) - Going from 0 to 10K MRR: Learn to Sell, Test Pricing, and Stay Focused(38:53) - Bootstrapping with AI: Don't Waste Model Credits, Focus on ROI(39:32) - Scaling to $10M ARR with AI: Ecosystem Marketing & Creator-Led Trust(40:47) - Recap: AI Workflows, POCs, LinkedIn Automation & Strategic Thinking(42:35) - Connect with Guest Maja Voje on LinkedIn(42:58) - Subscribe to the GTM Strategies Newsletter on Substack(43:28) - Final CTA: Review the Show, Sponsor, Ask Questions, and Connect

Bringing her childhood dream to life is Josie White, the hot air balloon pilot. From an early obsession with their magical, multi-coloured domes, to a fully-fledged pilot, Josie now flies and facilitates passengers 2000 feet up in the air over Australian soil.But when nerves naturally start to run high in a small, floating basket, and fear manifests in a multitude of ways, reading the room to regulate passenger emotions is mission-critical to a successful flight.Josie shares how she guides her groups with calm authority, ensuring that everyone feels safe, reassured and present, all while piloting the balloon! A special conversation with plenty of fascinating and unexpected on-the-ground facilitation learnings, from up high in the clouds.Find out about:What facilitation looks like up to 4000 feat up in the airWhy reading body language is so critical for a successful flightThe importance of Josie regulating her emotions, to help regulate her passengersWhat facilitators can learn about the pre-flight checks, planning and preparationDon't miss the next episode: subscribe to the show with your favourite podcast player.Links:Watch the video recording of this episode on YouTube.Connect to Josie White:InstagramShare your thoughts about our conversation!Support the show✨✨✨Subscribe to our newsletter to receive a free 1-page summary of each upcoming episode directly to your inbox, or explore our eBooks featuring 50-episode compilations for even more facilitation insights. Find out more:https://workshops.work/podcast✨✨✨Did you know? You can search all episodes by keyword to find exactly what you need via our Buzzsprout page!

In part 4 of this special series “Showing up as you are”, recorded during 2024, with Jay Humphries and leadership expert Gary Anello; Gary shares a personal story about visiting his mother and dealing with the challenges of aging parents, independence, and memory. They delve into various themes, including the significance of authentic leadership, the mindfulness approach, and the importance of allowing individuals to show up as they are in both personal and professional spaces. The episode wraps up with discussions on how to present oneself authentically in workplaces and in daily life. Tune in for unfiltered, genuine dialogues on leading and living with authenticity.Read more: Lorena Wüthrich, writes The Poisonous Impact of Avoiding the Truth - Reflections on the special series "Showing up as you are"Follow us on Instagram: @hocosoconversation and Linkedin: HoCoSo Conversation

Bernie Maloney: The Power of Psychological Safety in Agile Teams Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes. Bernie shares a powerful story about learning what psychological safety truly means through both success and failure. Working in a high-pressure division with tight timelines and margins, Bernie discovered the transformative power of the mantra "always make a new mistake." When he made a significant error and was met with understanding rather than punishment, he experienced firsthand how psychological safety enables teams to thrive.  Later, facing a different challenge where mistrust existed between management and teams, Bernie had to navigate the delicate balance of maintaining psychological safety while addressing management's desire for transparency. His solution was innovative: conduct retrospectives with the team first, then invite managers in at the end with anonymized contributions. Bernie's approach of framing changes as experiments helped people embrace newness, knowing it would be time-bound and reversible. In this episode we refer to Neuro-linguistic Programming (NLP).  Self-reflection Question: How might your current approach to mistakes and experimentation be either fostering or undermining psychological safety within your team? [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

Hoy nos acompaña Max Araya, formador de líderes y constructor de equipos de alto compromiso. Durante años ha ayudado a empresas, organizaciones y proyectos a pasar de la orden al consenso, del miedo a la confianza y del “hazlo porque lo digo” al “vamos porque creemos en esto”. En este episodio hablamos de: - ¿Por qué URGE formar líderes hoy (rotación, burnout, equipos híbridos)? - ¿Se nace o se hace? El eterno debate. - Cómo lograr que la gente opine, participe y decida. - Jóvenes que quieren liderar vs jefes que no sueltan. - Herramientas prácticas para crear confianza en tu equipo. - El costo oculto de no delegar. - ¿Todos podemos ser líderes… o no pasa nada si algunos solo hacen bien su chamba? INSTAGRAM: @elcanaldemomoTIKTOK: @elcanaldemomoFACEBOOK: El canal de MomoX: @ElcanaldeMomo_________________________Distribuido por: Genuina Media

You can't fix what no one feels safe to say out loud. In this episode, I sit down with astronaut Dr Charles Camarda to explore the cultural roots of catastrophic failure ... and how even the most advanced organisations can lose their way. We talk about the moments that led to the Columbia tragedy, the silence that surrounded it, and what Charlie learned when he was removed from his role after speaking out. This is a conversation about what real leadership looks like in high-pressure environments. Not just launching missions - but creating space for truth, dissent, and critical thinking at every level of a team. Charlie Camarda is a former NASA astronaut, research engineer, and Director of Engineering. He's spent nearly five decades working at the intersection of innovation and risk ... and he's on a mission to help leaders learn from the failures we don't talk about enough. --The Unlock Moment podcast is brought to you by Dr Gary Crotaz, PhD. Downloaded in over 120 countries. Sign up to The Unlock Moment newsletter at https://tinyurl.com/ywhdaazp Find out more at https://garycrotaz.com and https://theunlockmoment.com

In part 3 of this special series “Showing up as you are”, recorded during 2024, with Jay Humphries and leadership expert Gary Anello; the duo discusses themes of diversity, inclusion, and leadership in a polarized world. Jay emphasizes the importance of honesty and authenticity in both personal and professional relationships. They explore the emotional challenges of attachment and expectations, the significance of creating safe spaces, and the struggles of reconciling personal identity with societal and organizational expectations. The episode encapsulates candid conversations about leadership, vulnerability, and the human experience. Tune in for unfiltered, genuine dialogues on leading and living with authenticity.Read more: Lorena Wüthrich, writes The Poisonous Impact of Avoiding the Truth - Reflections on the special series "Showing up as you are"Follow us on Instagram: @hocosoconversation and Linkedin: HoCoSo Conversation

Send us a textResolving workplace conflict requires more than good intentions—it demands psychological safety. In our latest episode, we explore this powerful intersection with Alex Myers, a Chartered Occupational Psychologist, coach, and mediator who's transforming how organisations handle workplace disputes.Alex shares her journey implementing psychological safety principles at Jewish Care, where the impact has been transformative. What began as executive leadership training has cascaded throughout the organization, with team members now naturally incorporating psychological safety language into their daily interactions and leadership practices. This cultural shift proves that small, consistent actions create meaningful change over time.The heart of our conversation explores how mediation works, from preparing conflicting parties through to resolution. Alex walks us through her approach to creating safe spaces where difficult conversations can happen productively. Unlike lengthy HR investigations that often deepen divisions, mediation offers a streamlined path to resolution that preserves relationships and team cohesion. The results speak for themselves—none of Alex's mediations have progressed to formal grievance procedures.We delve into the fascinating neuroscience behind conflict, examining how fight-or-flight responses hijack our ability to communicate effectively. Alex explains techniques for activating the calming parasympathetic nervous system, helping conflicting parties move from defensive posturing to genuine listening. Her practical suggestions for reframing statements and creating neutral environments offer valuable tools anyone can apply in challenging conversations.The most powerful moments come through Alex's real-world examples of transformation—from colleagues who couldn't look at each other to team members actively supporting one another after mediation. These stories illustrate the profound impact of combining psychological knowledge with skilled conversation facilitation.Whether you're a leader managing team dynamics, an HR professional handling workplace disputes, or someone navigating difficult conversations, this episode offers practical wisdom for creating environments where honest dialogue can flourish. Episodes are available here https://www.thecpo.co.uk/ To follow Zircon on LinkedIn and to be first to hear about podcasts, publications and news, please like and follow us: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zircon-consulting-ltd/ To access the research white papers mentioned in this and other podcasts, please go to: https://zircon-mc.co.uk/zircon-white-papers.php For more information about the BeTalent suite of tools and platform please contact: TheCPO@zircon-mc.co.uk

Why do well-intentioned initiatives so often fail to deliver results?  The answer lies not in strategy but in execution - specifically, in the gap between what people intend to do and what they actually do.  Scott Young has spent his career at the intersection of behavioral science and business transformation, advising Fortune 500 companies and teaching at institutions like the London School of Economics. His mission: helping leaders apply behavioral science ethically and effectively to drive real change.  In this illuminating conversation, Scott reveals:  • Behavioral science offers unique value in helping close the "intent-action gap" where people want to do the right thing but human nature gets in the way  • Simple frameworks like COM-B and EAST help leaders think broadly about potential barriers and design effective interventions  • Confusion serves as a much bigger barrier than we think, when people get confused, they use it as an "off-ramp" to avoid uncomfortable changes  • Most companies over-rely on communication and financial incentives while underestimating the power of environmental design and process changes  • Traditional top-down approaches to culture change often fail, instead, define specific behaviors that constitute values like "collaboration" or "innovation"  • Leaders should create a "behavioral lens" as part of their leadership toolkit to complement strategy with effective execution  • The timeliness of communication often matters more than its content - focus on reaching people at the moment of decision  • AI adoption faces 2 key barriers: general resistance to technology change and fear of replacement  • Psychological safety is crucial for technology adoption - people need to feel comfortable asking questions and expressing confusion - and where leaders get it wrong, while trying to shift culture towards it  ... and so much more!  Whether you're leading organizational transformation, building a more innovative culture, or trying to improve adoption of new technologies, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately.  Learn how to close the intent-action gap and create environments where good intentions translate into consistent results.  Tune in!  ___________________________

Why Autoimmune Burnout Hits Harder, And What to Do About It Burnout isn't just about long hours and too much coffee. When you live with an autoimmune condition, burnout is deeper, more advanced, and more relentless. Think of it as burnout on steroids, an emotional rollercoaster of symptoms, endless appointments, a diagnosis that's both a relief and a life sentence, and fatigue so bone-deep it's invisible to everyone but you. Description: In this first episode of the Running on Empty series, Dr. Alison breaks down why autoimmune burnout is different, and why it leaves you more exhausted, more frustrated, and more misunderstood than “regular” burnout. Here's what you'll discover inside this episode: Why autoimmune burnout is more advanced: from the exhausting path to diagnosis, to the emotional weight of “no cure,” to the invisible fatigue no one else seems to understand. The science behind it: how burnout impacts your brain, nervous system, hormones, and inflammation — and why it can amplify flares and symptoms. The truth about testing: why there's no single burnout biomarker, and why cortisol panels won't tell you what you already feel in your body. What doesn't work: quick-fix detoxes, supplement stacks, or trying to “push through.” What actually helps: research-backed strategies, from sleep and movement to mindset, gratitude, and nervous system regulation, that rebuild resilience step by step. ✨ Most importantly, you'll walk away knowing this: burnout isn't permanent. With the right strategies, you can recover, rebuild, and reclaim your energy. --------------------------------------------------------------- Resources & Links: Ready to go deeper? Check out autoimmuneacademy.com. The Fatigue Fix course has a full section designed specifically to help you overcome burnout. https://autoimmuneacademy.com/programs/ Drop a Review on the Podcast + Send us a screenshot and we'll send you Dr. Alison's Exclusive Training on Autoimmune Myths, That Are Keeping You Stuck www.autoimmuneacademy.com/review Follow Dr. Alison Dnaby on Instagram @dr.AlisonDanby

In this episode, the guys discuss how easy it is to feel like a victim and how to make ourselves feel more safe and secure.

In this special series “Showing up as you are”, recorded during 2024, Jay Humphries hosts leadership expert Gary Anello. Together, they explore the critical themes of diversity, equality, and inclusion in leadership and daily life.  In this first episode, Jay discusses their personal journey over the past two years, including coming out as non-binary, dealing with burnout and depression, and the importance of showing up authentically in life and leadership. Gary talks about his recent career presentations in Portugal, positive intelligence coaching based on the book 'Positive Intelligence' by Shirzad Chamine, and the significant impact of mindset shifts. The episode also delves into how past experiences shape our perceptions and the importance of embracing the present moment.  Read more: Lorena Wüthrich, writes The Poisonous Impact of Avoiding the Truth - Reflections on the special series "Showing up as you are"Follow us on Instagram: @hocosoconversation and Linkedin: HoCoSo Conversation

In part 2 of this special series “Showing up as you are”, recorded during 2024, with Jay Humphries and leadership expert Gary Anello; Jay delves into themes of authenticity, diversity, equality, and inclusion, emphasizing the importance of telling the truth and leading with integrity. They discuss the personal impacts of not living one's truth, referencing plays such as Eugene O'Neill's 'Long Day's Journey Into Night' and Arthur Miller's 'Death of a Salesman' to illustrate the consequences of inauthenticity. Through candid and unfiltered conversations, Jay and Gary explore the challenges and importance of showing up as one's true self both personally and professionally.Read more: Lorena Wüthrich, writes The Poisonous Impact of Avoiding the Truth - Reflections on the special series "Showing up as you are"Follow us on Instagram: @hocosoconversation and Linkedin: HoCoSo Conversation

Step into the fascinating world of group dynamics with our special guest, Colin Fisher, an associate professor at University College London and the creative mind behind the upcoming book, "The Collective Edge: Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups." Drawing from his rich experiences in research and consulting, Colin shares how groups can achieve greatness that far exceeds individual contributions. He highlights the importance of treating groups as unique entities, crucial for problem-solving and enhancing collaboration in daily and professional settings.Explore the secrets behind effective team composition as Colin guides us through the critical elements of social sensitivity, skill diversity, and intrinsic motivation. We underline the importance of forming teams with members who are socially aware and genuinely invested in their tasks. The discussion delves into empathy's role in team performance, offering actionable insights for leaders striving to build more cohesive and dynamic teams.We also tackle the complexities of remote and hybrid work environments and stress the importance of psychological safety, enabling team members to challenge norms without fear. From enhancing trust and communication to fostering adaptability, this conversation provides an evidence-informed roadmap for anyone seeking to unlock the full potential of their teams.What You'll Learn- Effective team composition through social sensitivity, skill diversity, and intrinsic motivation- The role of empathy in team performance and strategies for building cohesive, dynamic teams- The power of curiosity and inquiry in welcoming diverse perspectives and enhancing team dynamics- Challenges and opportunities in remote and hybrid work environments, emphasizing psychological safety and adaptability- Strategies for maximizing team clarity, alignment, and trustPodcast Timestamps(00:00) - The Power of Group Dynamics(15:09) - Effective Team Composition Through Social Sensitivity(20:21) - Improving Team Dynamics Through Inquiry(31:11) – Leading Remote and Hybrid Teams(42:16) - Maximizing Team Clarity and Alignment(50:31) - Dynamic Team Charters and Coaching InsightsKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Team Success, Social Sensitivity, Intrinsic Motivation, Empathy, Remote Work, Psychological Safety, Building Trust, Improving Team Communication, Team Building, Establishing Clear Goals, Maximizing Alignment, Elevating Curiosity, Active Listening, Continuous Communication, CEO Success

Mariano Gontchar: Fear-Free Teams—Creating Psychological Safety for High Performance Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes. Mariano's definition of Scrum Master success has evolved dramatically from his early days of focusing on "deliver on time and budget" to a more sophisticated understanding centered on team independence and psychological safety. Today, he measures success by whether teams can self-manage, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and operate without fear of criticism. This shift represents a fundamental change from output-focused metrics to outcome-focused team health indicators that create sustainable high performance. Self-reflection Question: How has your definition of success evolved in your current role, and what would change if you focused on team independence rather than traditional delivery metrics? Featured Retrospective Format for the Week: Frustration-Based Retrospective Mariano's retrospective approach focuses on asking team members about their biggest frustrations from the last sprint. This format helps team members realize their frustrations aren't unique and creates psychological safety for sharing challenges. The key is always asking the team to propose solutions themselves rather than imposing fixes, making retrospectives about genuine continuous improvement rather than just complaining sessions. [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]

Actionable TakeawayStart small and make one intentional act that creates a ripple of impact.Practise the five human qualities that build trust and connection.Choose kindness over being “nice” by having the conversations that matter.Identify and remove micro-frictions that quietly slow your team down.Apply the “next shot” mindset to recover quickly after setbacks.Slow down intentionally to create space for trust and connection.Use everyday moments to show vulnerability while strengthening authority.Ask “If you really knew me…” to open deeper trust with your team. Connect with Chris Rollins:Learn more about Chris RollinsChris on LinkedInChris on Instagram Connect with Christian "Boo" Boucousis:Learn more about Christian BoucousisBoo on LinkedInBoo on InstagramBoo on YouTube Support the Podcast:If this episode meant something to you, please consider subscribing and reviewing the show. It helps more leaders and future leaders discover these stories.And if someone comes to mind while you're listening, send it their way. A small share can go a long way.

In today's solo episode, host Claire Bown shares practical strategies for overcoming the most common fears about inquiry-based teaching in museums. From handling uncertainty and awkward silences to managing participation and time, she guides you through simple, actionable ways to build confidence and make inquiry feel rewarding- for you and your participants.Inquiry-based teaching works. It creates the kind of museum experiences where participants lean in, ask questions, and make personal connections with art and objects. But despite all these benefits, why do many people feel hesitant about giving it a go?We'll explore common concerns - like losing control, time management, participation, or not having all the answers - and I'll walk you through strategies to move past them.Here's what I cover in today's episode:Why understanding your own relationship with inquiry is the first stepHow to develop comfort with uncertainty and not knowingWhy it helps to start small and build confidence graduallyThe role of flexible structures (like Questioning Practices) in supporting inquiryPractical ways to manage time, participation, and group dynamicsBuilding your facilitation toolkit step by stepWhy practice and reflection are essential for growing your skillsHow to reframe “failure” as a valuable learning opportunityResources mentioned in this episode:The Art Engager: Reimagining Guided Experiences in Museums (my book)Episode 143: Uncertainty: Finding Wonder in Not Knowing with Maggie JacksonEpisode 137: How to Use the UniversalEpisode 142: Building Trust and Psychological Safety on Guided Experiences in MuseumsEpisodes 95 & 96: The Power of Silence in Guided ExperiencesEpisode 66: 7 Ways to Improve Your Active Listening SkillsEvery single episode of The Art Engager podcast webpage: https://thinkingmuseum.com/every-single-episode-of-the-art-engager-podcast/–––✨ If you've enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting The Art Engager on Patreon. Or pick up a copy of my book, The Art Engager, for step-by-step guidance on creating meaningful, interactive guided experiences.The Art Engager is written and presented by Claire Bown. Editing is by Matt Jacobs and Claire Bown. Music by Richard Bown. Support the show on Patreon.Show notes‘The Art Engager: Reimagining Guided Experiences in Museums‘ is now available worldwide through your favourite online platforms and retailers. Buy it here on Amazon.com: https://tinyurl.com/buytheartengagerThe Art Engager book website:

Our guest in this episode is Ruth Kent, a passionate advisor who began her career as a teacher with a love for public health. Driven by a deep sense of purpose, she now blends these two worlds to help organizations create more human-centered and effective ways to learn and thrive. In our wonderful chat, Ruth shares her pragmatic approach to navigating today's biggest workplace challenges, from fostering genuine psychological safety to harnessing AI as a tool for deeper connection.Key points discussed include:* True psychological safety is built on a leader's vulnerability and courage to "circle back" after a mistake.* Frame AI not as a threat, but as a collaborative thinking partner to enhance our human capabilities and creativity.* In an age of intelligent machines, our greatest asset is our ability to lean into our shared humanity.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Ruth KentIt was an absolute privilege to welcome the brilliant Ruth Kent to the InnovaBuzz podcast. Drawing from her fascinating background in both public health and education, Ruth helps organizations build a more human and effective way to learn and thrive. Our conversation was a deep dive into what it truly means to support people in the modern workplace, moving beyond simple programs to create genuine frameworks for connection and wellbeing.Ruth's insights are particularly timely. She shared how the entire landscape of workplace wellbeing has evolved, especially in the last five years. We've moved past the era of one-size-fits-all fitness challenges and into a much more nuanced space. The conversation now includes hybrid work, the right to disconnect, and a growing understanding of neurodiversity, all demanding a more thoughtful approach.The New Workplace Landscape: Beyond the Wellness ProgramOne of the most powerful ideas Ruth introduced was the concept of applying a "public health lens" to an organization. Instead of just reacting with isolated wellness initiatives, this approach encourages leaders to step back and look at the entire system. It's about getting curious about the specific demographics, needs, and cultural nuances of the team you actually have, rather than just importing a program that worked for another company.This means asking deeper questions and truly listening to what people need to feel supported. It's a strategic shift from simply offering perks to proactively designing a healthier, more connected work environment from the ground up. This method allows for the creation of supports that are not only more effective but also feel far more authentic to the people they are meant to serve.The Foundation of Growth: Cultivating Real Psychological SafetyOf course, none of this is possible without a foundation of psychological safety. We explored the immense challenge leaders face in getting truly honest feedback, and Ruth shared a wonderfully human insight to guide them. She drew a powerful analogy between effective leadership and modern parenting, highlighting the importance of vulnerability and the courage to "circle back" after making a mistake.Imagine a leader who, after a tense moment or a poorly-worded email, has the self-awareness to return to their team member and say, "That wasn't my best self, and I apologize." That simple, authentic act doesn't just fix a single interaction; it builds a bridge of trust. It signals that it's okay to be human, to be imperfect, and to be committed to working through challenges together.The Leader's Inner Compass: The Power of Self-AwarenessDiving deeper, Ruth explained that this ability to "circle back" stems from a profound self-awareness, or what she calls "interoception." This is the ability to notice our own internal state—that clenching in the stomach or the quickening heart rate—and understand how it's driving our thoughts and actions. A leader who is attuned to their inner world can make more conscious choices about their behaviour.This is critical because, as Ruth pointed out, a leader's internal experience is transmitted to the team whether they intend it or not. We are all "beacons," and our non-verbal cues often speak louder than our words. By cultivating this inner awareness, leaders can move from being reactive to being intentional, creating a calmer and more stable environment for everyone.Reframing Our Future: AI as a Collaborative Thinking PartnerOur conversation then turned to the great disruptor of our time: Artificial Intelligence. Ruth offered a refreshingly balanced and optimistic perspective, framing AI not as a threat, but as a potential "collaborative thinking partner." She sees it as a tool that, if we proceed with awareness and caution, can help us solve some of humanity's biggest challenges.This doesn't mean ignoring the very real anxieties many people feel about job displacement or a potential crisis of purpose. Ruth acknowledged these challenges thoughtfully, suggesting that our task is to guide this emerging technology, to have foresight, and to think critically about how we can make sure the benefits are shared by all.From Efficiency to Empathy: Using AI to Enhance Our HumanitySo how do we use this powerful new partner to become more human? Ruth shared a fantastic personal example of using an AI chatbot as a supportive, objective third party. After receiving a frustrating email, instead of firing back an emotional reply, she used the AI to validate her feelings and think through a more constructive response, ultimately preserving the relationship.This beautifully illustrates a key opportunity: we can use AI to handle repetitive tasks and create efficiencies, but the real prize is what we do with the time we save. The goal isn't just to move on to the next task faster. The goal is to reinvest that reclaimed time in what truly matters: checking in with a colleague, writing a thoughtful thank you note, or simply having a conversation to ask, "How are you?"Your Ultimate Differentiator: Leaning Deeper into ConnectionAs we wrapped up, the central theme became crystal clear. In an age where AI can handle so much of the clerical and repetitive work, our greatest value and key differentiator will always be our humanity. The ability to be flexible, to connect authentically, and to lean into our self-awareness are the skills that will matter most.Ruth left us with a simple, brilliant call to action that perfectly balances the technological and the human. First, find someone in your life who may not understand AI and take a moment to expose them to it; share the potential and open up a conversation. Then, to counteract that, pick up the phone and call a friend. Have a real conversation and listen to a human voice.In Summary: My chat with Ruth Kent was a powerful reminder that the path to a better future of work isn't about choosing between technology and humanity, but about consciously using one to deepen the other. By cultivating self-awareness, fostering genuine psychological safety, and reinvesting our time in real connection, we can build workplaces where both people and organizations can truly flourish.The Buzz - Our Innovation RoundHere are Ruth's answers to the questions of our innovation round. Listen to the conversation to get the full scoop.* Most innovative use of AI to enhance human relationships: AI can act as a supportive sidekick, offering advice before you respond to someone to help strengthen the connection.* Best thing to integrate AI and human connection: Ruth uses AI to enhance her own capabilities and strategic thinking, which indirectly enables her to connect more effectively with others.* Differentiate by leveraging AI: Differentiate yourself by deeply understanding your inner self, which allows you to harness AI to amplify your unique humanity.ActionExpose someone new to AI to help spread the understanding of what it's capable of. To balance this, make a phone call to a friend and have a real conversation, connecting with a human voice.Reach OutYou can reach out and thank Ruth on LinkedIn, via her website, or by sending an email to hello@sunrisewell.com.au.Links:* Website - Sunrise Well* LinkedIn* Facebook* Instagram - @sunrise_wellCool Things About Ruth* Ruth applies a "Public Health Lens" to Business: She doesn't just look at individual employee perks. Instead, she applies a "public health lens" to an entire organization, analyzing the culture, demographics, and systems to understand the root causes of workplace stress and disconnection.* She Saw the Pandemic Coming: Due to her studies in public health, she was one of the few people who wasn't surprised by the arrival of the 2020 pandemic and the subsequent public health measures. She knew something like it was statistically inevitable.* Leadership is Like Conscious Parenting: Ruth has a powerful and relatable philosophy that great leadership mirrors conscious parenting. The key is not to be perfect, but to have the self-awareness and vulnerability to "circle back," apologize, and repair connections after a mistake.* Uses AI as an Emotional Sounding Board: She views AI as a "collaborative thinking partner." She shared a personal example of using it to process her own frustration with an email, allowing her to get validation and formulate a calm, professional response rather than reacting emotionally.Ready to move beyond just creating content and start creating real connection?In the Age of AI, the future belongs to those who can amplify human wisdom. Flywheel Nation is MORE than a community; it's a movement for creators and visionaries dedicated to shaping a more human future.Join us as we co-create that future for ethical AI. Here you will tap into the collective wisdom of leaders who prioritize connection over automation, find powerful collaborations that elevate your impact, and help illuminate the path forward.This is your invitation to not only grow your business but to become a lighthouse for others.Join the movement. Visit innovabiz.co/flywheel to be a part of the conversation.VideoThanks for reading Innovabiz Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit innovabiz.substack.com/subscribe

"I believe when you put yourself in uncomfortable situations is when you grow the most. Living in a rural village, no running water, no electricity, and essentially being a doula in a middle Atlas Mountain Village for two and a half years, different language, different religion, you know, you just learn a lot about people." From Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco to CEO of Oxeon—the executive search firm reimagining healthcare leadership—Sonia Millsom has spent 30 years proving that the most uncomfortable paths lead to the greatest transformations. Her journey through healthcare's biggest successes (including helping scale Maven to unicorn status and Iora Health to a billion-dollar exit) taught her one critical truth: companies don't fail because of bad CEOs—they fail because the wrong people are at the wrong tables. Now at Oxeon, Sonia is fixing that problem by placing leaders at ALL the tables that matter: executive teams, boardrooms, and cap tables. Because after 13 years of data, she knows exactly what makes leaders successful—and it's not what most people think. "High performing teams have high degrees of psychological safety," she explains. But in today's world of AI disruption, multi-generational workforces, and constant pivots, that safety is harder to build than ever. Her solution? Stop looking for the CEO with three unicorn exits. Start looking for leaders who can "think again" like scientists, not preachers or prosecutors. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sonia also reveals: The 5 key attributes that predict leadership success (hint: clock speed matters more than credentials) Why women will control $34 trillion by 2030—and how that changes everything about healthcare What Peace Corps taught her about patient care that Harvard Business School never could The real reason companies pivot faster now (and why your old playbook won't save you) How ambient listening cameras preventing patient falls signals healthcare's AI future Why "life begins at the end of your comfort zone"—advice she's passing to her daughters The pattern recognition trap that causes investors to miss breakthrough leaders "Nothing is up and to the right all the time," Sonia admits. "When those times of when things go down is actually where you learn the most." From serving as a doula in rural Morocco to orchestrating billion-dollar healthcare transformations, Sonia Millsom proves that understanding people—whether patients in villages or executives in boardrooms—is the key to driving real change. At Oxeon, she's not just filling leadership positions; she's architecting the future of healthcare by ensuring the right leaders are at every table where decisions get made. Her motto? "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Her mission? Making sure healthcare's next generation of leaders—including her own daughters—are ready to be uncomfortable, curious, and kind enough to transform an industry that touches us all. Chapters 01:30 - Why Leadership Diversity Drives Healthcare Success 03:45 - Five Key Attributes of Successful Leaders 07:20 - Psychological Safety in Uncertain Times 10:15 - From Peace Corps to Healthcare CEO 13:00 - Pivoting in Healthcare: Lessons from Iora and Maven 16:30 - AI and the Multi-Generational Workforce 19:45 - Women's $34 Trillion Financial Future 23:00 - Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sonia Millsom on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

This episode cuts through the noise and breaks leadership down to its core: take action, own accountability, and create positive change. It explores the three traps that kill leadership: inaction, excuses, and the status quo, and explains why most leadership advice is junk. With practical insights and memorable principles like “leave it better than you found it”, this conversation offers a clear, timeless definition of what real leadership looks like today.

Corporate training, we all know the drill. The tonedeaf PowerPoint karaoke begins in the background, regurgitating slide content word for word, as you absentmindedly reply to an email…your mind still lingering in your last meeting. If episode 337 can do just one thing, I hope it can save you from ever having to sit through another training session like it! After running hundreds of workshops for multinational companies, I thought it was about time I shared my secrets.Join me, myself and I, as we explore the anatomy of engaging, co-created training sessions that not only pique curiosity, but bridge hierarchies, timezones and departments, and gets everyone out of their inbox, and back into the room. It's time to close your tabs, stretch your bodies, and get present!What's inherently wrong with corporate training – and why it's so often a wasted opportunityMy tips for connecting participants to the present moment, and to each otherHow to design a workshop to ensure participants retain the content and apply what they've learnedHow to scale training with local relevance, dynamic learning, and cultural insights at its heartWhy naming the elephant in the room can help to overcome any awkwardness  Don't miss the next episode: subscribe to the show with your favourite podcast player.Links:Watch the video recording of this episode on YouTube.Connect to Myriam Hadnes:LinkedInWebsiteShare your thoughts about our conversation!Support the show✨✨✨Subscribe to our newsletter to receive a free 1-page summary of each upcoming episode directly to your inbox, or explore our eBooks featuring 50-episode compilations for even more facilitation insights. Find out more:https://workshops.work/podcast✨✨✨Did you know? You can search all episodes by keyword to find exactly what you need via our Buzzsprout page!

Why do brilliant individuals so often create dysfunctional groups? AJ and Johnny sit down with organizational behavior professor Colin Fisher, author of The Collective Edge, to unpack the science of collaboration and why most teams achieve less than the sum of their parts. From the rise of individualism to the misunderstood role of psychological safety, Colin explains why we get group projects wrong—and what it really takes to create synergy. They explore why conformity isn't always bad, how to design groups that avoid wasted meetings, why hierarchy quietly kills dissent, and how healthy conflict (not harmony) fuels breakthroughs. Whether you're running a team, stuck in endless meetings, or dreading your next group project, this episode gives you the science-backed playbook for making groups work. What to Listen For [00:00:20] Why groups fail despite individual brilliance [00:01:07] How a government scandal inspired Colin's research on groupthink [00:02:26] Why some conformity pressure is necessary for groups [00:04:26] The “fundamental attribution error” and our bias toward individual heroes [00:06:30] Why most meetings are badly designed and destroy synergy [00:10:15] Colin's experience as a musician—and what bands teach us about synergy [00:15:23] How hierarchy silences voices and breeds groupthink [00:20:17] The real meaning of psychological safety (hint: it's not kumbaya) [00:24:52] How to bring out contributions from introverts [00:32:41] The warning signs of dysfunctional conformity [00:35:43] Task conflict vs. relationship conflict—and why one helps and the other destroys [00:44:38] Rethinking leadership as a team sport, not an individual role A Word From Our Sponsors Stop being over looked and unlock your X-Factor today at unlockyourxfactor.com  The very qualities that make you exceptional in your field are working against you socially.  Visit the artofcharm.com/intel for a social intelligence assessment and discover exactly what's holding you back. Indulge in affordable luxury with Quince. Upgrade your wardrobe today at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠quince.com/charm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping and hassle-free returns. Grow your way - with Headway! Get started at makeheadway.com/CHARM and use my code CHARM for 25% off. Ready to turn your business idea into reality? Sign up for your $1/month trial at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠shopify.com/charm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Need to hire top talent—fast? Claim your $75 Sponsored Job Credit now at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Indeed.com/charm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get your summer savings and shop premium wireless plans at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠mintmobile.com/charm⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Save more than fifty percent on term life insurance at SELECTQUOTE.COM/CHARM TODAY to get started  Curious about your influence level?  Get your Influence Index Score today! Take this 60-second quiz to find out how your influence stacks up against top performers at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠theartofcharm.com/influence⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Episode resources: ColinMFisher.com The Collective Edge Check in with AJ and Johnny! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AJ on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Johnny on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AJ on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Johnny on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Charm on Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Charm on YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Charm on TikTok Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when AI disruption collides with the urgent need for human-centered leadership?In this episode of The Conscious Capitalists' Future-Focused Summer Series, hosts Timothy Henry and Dr. Neha Sangwan are joined by Christine Heckart - tech industry veteran, former CEO of Scalyr, senior executive at Microsoft and Cisco, and now founder of Xapa, an AI-powered leadership development platform. Together, they dive into how leaders can guide their organizations through radical uncertainty, exponential change, and the AI revolution without leaving their people behind.Christine pulls from 30 years in Silicon Valley to reveal why 90% of AI transformation projects are failing - not because of technology, but because of people. She explains how leaders must anchor teams in trust, purpose, and psychological safety, while scaling leadership development across every level of the organization. The conversation highlights why human connection, empathy, and conscious capitalism are the real differentiators in an AI-driven world.This is more than a discussion on technology - it's a playbook for leading with both innovation and heart in a time when businesses face unprecedented change.Listeners will gain insights into:Why most AI transformation projects fail - and how to avoid the trapThe difference between trust and psychological safety (and why both matter)Practical ways to stabilize teams during radical disruptionHow to scale leadership development across every level of the companyWhy empathy and conscious capitalism are now business-critical skillsHow CEOs can balance AI-powered innovation with human judgmentWhy people-first leadership is the key to unlocking AI's potentialWhether you're a CEO wrestling with AI disruption, a leader striving to build resilient teams, or a founder seeking to combine innovation with purpose, this episode offers a powerful guide to leading with clarity, courage, and humanity in a time of radical change.**If you enjoy this podcast, would you consider leaving a review on Apple Podcasts/iTunes? It takes only a few seconds and greatly helps us get our podcast out to a wider audience.Please subscribe on Apple Podcasts / Spotify / Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts.For transcripts and show notes, please go to: https://www.theconsciouscapitalists.comThis show is presented by Conscious Capitalism, Inc. (https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/) and is produced by Rainbow Creative (https://www.rainbowcreative.co/) with Matthew Jones as Executive Producer, Rithu Jagannath as Lead Producer, and Nathan Wheatley as Editor.Thank you for your support!- Timothy & Neha

“Psychological safety is the belief that one will not be punished or humiliated for speaking up. It's a shared belief that a team is safe for taking interpersonal risks.” - Amy C. Edmondson Psychological safety paired with perspective taking is a game changer for hopeful allies in power. In this mini-sode from the new book We Want You: An Allyship Guide for People with Power, I talk about the importance of separating intentions versus impact, asking open-ended questions that start with "what" or "how," and extending grace to yourself and others.

If leading with empathy feels risky, this is your recalibration. Discover why compassion and performance aren't opposites — and why your humanity may be the missing link to sustainable outcomes.You've been told to choose: be human or be high-performing. But that's a false binary — and it's costing you peace, presence, and leadership trust.This episode dismantles the lie that compassion and clarity are in conflict. Julie unpacks the neuroscience behind leadership safety, explores why bracing backfires, and invites high-capacity humans to lead from soul instead of performance.We reflect on the personal cost of emotional inaccessibility — the walls we build, the weight we carry, and the subtle ways we trade presence for polish. Through the lens of Brené Brown's leadership, we reclaim vulnerability as a strategic strength.If you've been bracing… regulating tone, pulling back your humanity, fearing softness will discredit you — this is your episode.Key Takeaways:Why emotional safety increases performance (ventral vagal insight)The difference between codependence and compassionWhy presence — not performance — drives sustainable outcomesA one-liner recalibration you can use in any meeting or messageToday's Micro Recalibration:“Where have I traded clarity for coldness — or compassion for codependence?”You don't have to pick between heart and outcomes.But you do have to stop waiting to lead from alignment.Let's recalibrate.Linked Resources:#31 How to Break the Patterns That Keep Holding You BackIf this episode gave you language you've been missing, please rate and review the show so more high-capacity humans can find it. Explore Identity-Level Recalibration→ Follow Julie Holly on LinkedIn for more recalibration insights → Schedule a conversation with Julie to see if The Recalibration is a fit for you → Download the Misalignment Audit → Subscribe to the weekly newsletter → Join the waitlist for the next Recalibration cohort This isn't therapy. This isn't coaching. This is identity recalibration — and it changes everything.

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In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Dr. Zach Mercurio—researcher, author, and leading voice on meaningful work—to unpack a quiet crisis in today's workplaces: anti-mattering. If you've ever felt invisible at work or noticed your team going through the motions, this episode will give you the language and tools to change that. Instead of brushing past the small moments, Dr. Mercurio shows how everyday interactions shape whether people feel seen, valued, and significant. With research-backed insights and practical strategies, you'll learn how to build psychological safety, boost employee engagement, and create a culture where everyone knows they matter. Inside This Episode: What Is Anti-Mattering? Spot the subtle (and sometimes toxic) signals that leave employees feeling invisible. The Primal Need to Matter: Why being seen, heard, and valued drives everything from morale to performance. Psychological Safety in Practice: How leaders can create environments that invite risk-taking and authentic expression. The Power of Micro-Moments: Small, intentional acts that turn disengagement into dedication. Skills for Real Connection: The authentic leadership traits that make significance stick. Who This Episode Is For: Leaders and managers who want to foster real connection, not just compliance. Teams struggling with disengagement, low morale, or quiet quitting. Anyone curious about how to build a workplace culture where people want to show up and contribute. Tune in to learn how to make mattering a leadership habit. And if you know someone who's ready to shift their culture from invisible to invaluable, share this episode with them. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Dr. Zach Mercurio Zach's LinkedIn Zach's website Zach's book, The Invisible Leader Zach's book, The Power of Mattering Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

Picture a workplace where every idea is welcome, mistakes are opportunities for growth, and diverse perspectives are genuinely valued. Daniel Shore, Ph.D., a behavioral scientist and cofounder of MultiTeam Solutions, discusses how psychological safety helps build healthy, high-performing teams. Shore also works through a few real-world workplace scenarios where conflicts arise and emotions run high — to model how he'd approach each challenge in a way that fosters psychological safety and civility while driving accountability, collaboration, and growth.Resources from this week's episode:2025 Civility Index - https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/research/latest-civility-index-resultsSHRM Blueprint - https://conference.shrm.org/blueprintSubscribe to the All Things Work newsletter to get the latest episodes, expert insights, and additional resources delivered straight to your inbox: https://shrm.co/fg444d  ---Explore SHRM's all-new flagships. Content curated by experts. Created for you weekly. Each content journey features engaging podcasts, video, articles, and groundbreaking newsletters tailored to meet your unique needs in your organization and career. Learn More: https://shrm.co/coy63r

How do you teach facilitators to hold a group, master that crucial first 15-minutes of a workshop, and show them that they already have all the answers, without giving any away?As a researcher by nature, and a facilitator – at first by accident – Julia Slay learnt everything she knows about the craft by teaching it. She now helps bright, budding facilitators to build confidence, find their voice, and discover their learning edges in Facilitation 101.We unravel the layers of holding just the right amount of space, as part facilitator, part coach, part trainer and part consultant, all rolled happily into one: from managing difficult characters with curiosity, to trusting yourself to stay present – even when the plan falls apart! Julia shares lots of practical strategies, tips and anecdotes from her 15-year facilitation journey, from the Mayor of London's office, to her work today. Enjoy!Find out about:The art of asking a powerful, open question at the right timeHow to navigate power dynamics of seniority in groupsWhy ‘advice is theft' – and the detriment of offering a solution to the group too soonHow to approach dominant characters without creating collective tensionThe intersection of facilitation and coaching – and what it means to facilitate like a coachDon't miss the next episode: subscribe to the show with your favourite podcast player.Links:Watch the video recording of this episode on YouTube.Connect to Julia Slay:LinkedInWebsite Use code TASTER10 to receive 10% off Facilitation 101: Fundamentals, Masterclass, Intensive, and Self-Paced course when you sign up on Julia's website.Share your thoughts about our conversation!Support the show✨✨✨Subscribe to our newsletter to receive a free 1-page summary of each upcoming episode directly to your inbox, or explore our eBooks featuring 50-episode compilations for even more facilitation insights. Find out more:https://workshops.work/podcast✨✨✨Did you know? You can search all episodes by keyword to find exactly what you need via our Buzzsprout page!

  In this episode of Cybersecurity Today, host Jim Love explores the complex dynamics of cybersecurity training with guests Michael Joyce and David Shipley. They discuss the importance of continuous awareness and the temporal decay of training effects. The conversation highlights the critical balance between training frequency and effectiveness, with data suggesting that monthly phishing simulations and quarterly training interventions offer optimal results. Despite recent headlines claiming phishing training is ineffective, the discussion underscores the nuanced understanding required to navigate cybersecurity education. The episode also delves into academic versus business perspectives, emphasizing the importance of empirical research and critical thinking in developing effective cybersecurity strategies. 00:00 Understanding Human Vigilance and Awareness Decay 00:33 Introduction to Cybersecurity Today 00:46 Meet the Experts: Michael Joyce and David Shipley 01:39 Exploring the Human-Centric Cybersecurity Partnership 03:38 The Role of Liberal Arts in Cybersecurity 04:23 Challenges in Cybersecurity: Technology vs. Human Behavior 06:34 The Importance of Independent Research in Cybersecurity 12:30 Analyzing Cybersecurity Awareness Month 18:32 Phishing Simulations and Security Fatigue 23:14 The Impact of Training on Phishing Awareness 39:38 Experimenting with Phishing Training Frequency 39:51 Critiques and Insights on Cybersecurity Training 41:51 Optimal Training Intervals and Their Impact 43:23 The Role of Awareness in Cybersecurity 44:13 Understanding Phishing Reporting and Skills Decay 45:22 Ethical Considerations in Phishing Simulations 46:38 New Data on Why People Click Phishing Links 55:52 The Importance of Psychological Safety 57:23 Debunking Misleading Headlines on Phishing Training 01:05:44 The Complexity of Cybersecurity Research 01:16:41 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Episode Highlight: On this episode of the Embracing "Only" podcast, we are featuring one of the most impactful moments from episode 42 with guest Deepa Purushothaman. This is a must-listen for every woman of color navigating the tension between success and self-erasure in systems never built for us.Deepa spent more than 20 years at Deloitte helping clients transform and grow. She was the first Indian-American woman and one of the youngest people to make partner in the firm's history. Deepa is an author and the founder of multiple businesses. In 2022, her debut book, The First, The Few, The Only, was published by HarperCollins to international acclaim.This episode is just a short snippet that highlights the best and most powerful learning moment from a past episode. You can listen to the full episode (filled with more wisdom) here: Episode 42: 500 stories of THE FIRST, THE FEW, THE ONLY.Key Discussion Points:00:59 The Pressure to Conform as a Female Leader of Color: The pressure to conform often intensifies once women of color reach senior leadership, making it harder to reclaim authenticity at the top.03:12 Choosing What Not to Compromise: Identify a short list of non-negotiables: values you won't trade in for professional acceptance.04:26 Confronting Internalized Guilt: Women of color often internalize blame when they experience bias, but the root cause is rarely personal. It's structural.08:45 The Health Toll of Conformity: 2 out of 3 women that Deepa interviewed were suffering from mysterious chronic illnesses - fatigue, migraines, infertility, and more - linked to the psychological toll of erasure.In Summary: Deepa Purushothaman emphasizes the importance of identifying and holding firm to one's non-negotiables in the workplace and being aware of the subtle indoctrinations that can lead to self-erasure.Resources from this episode:The First, The Few, The Only by Deepa PurushothamanFollow Deepa on LinkedIn or visit her website. If you happen to be a woman of color and you are looking for a community of like minded women, join Olivia here: https://www.mysistersshoulders.com/ Ready to make a change?→ If you are struggling to navigate your corporate career but are ambitious and have goals you want to accomplish quickly, Olivia is the coach for you. She can help you reach your goals. Reach out to her on LinkedIn or visit oliviacream.com.→ If you are ready to transition out of Corporate and want to start building a profitable portfolio career as a business owner, board member or more, but you're unsure of the next steps, Archita can guide you through a successful transition to entrepreneurship.Reach out to her on LinkedIn or visit architafritz.com.Connect with your hosts:Follow Embracing Only on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook, or check out the website._________Produced by Ideablossoms

By lightening up your communication, you can build serious connections.Humor in communication isn't all fun and games. According to Alison Wood Brooks and Naomi Bagdonas, levity is one of the most serious tools we have in building successful connections.Wood Brooks and Bagdonas, both teachers, authors, and experts in the field of communication, recognize how crucial levity is to our professional and personal interactions. “It's easy to think of [humor] as this extra bonus thing,” says Wood Brooks. “What we find is it's incredibly core to how people are relating to each other.” Bagdonas agrees: “When there's the presence of laughter in team meetings, those teams are more successful and more creative. Leaders with a sense of humor—not even a good sense of humor—are seen as more motivating, more admired, [and] their teams report being more engaged.”In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Wood Brooks and Bagdonas join host Matt Abrahams to explore levity as a mindset, or as Bagdonas puts it, “Navigating life on the precipice of a smile.” Together, they share how lightness and humor can break barriers, bridge connections, and unlock the door to better communication.To listen to the extended Deep Thinks version of this episode, please visit FasterSmarter.io/premium.Episode Reference Links:Alison Wood Brooks Alison's Book: TalkNaomi Bagdonas Naomi's Book: Humor, SeriouslyEp.13 Make 'Em Laugh: How to Use Humor as a Secret Weapon in Your CommunicationEp.73 Listen Up: Why It's Better to Be Interested Than InterestingEp.89 Listen, Listen, Listen: How to Build Deep ConnectionsEp.169 Don't Be a ZQ: Make Your Conversations Count   Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:13) - Talk Tour Insights (04:33) - Top Advice on Asking Questions (06:43) - Guiding Principles for Leaders (09:17) - Importance of Levity (11:17) - Why Humor Matters (13:06) - Letting Go of Comfort (16:24) - Overthinking Levity (18:30) - Creating Space for Levity (22:02) - Conclusion  *****This Episode is sponsored by Stanford. Stay Informed on Stanford's world changing research by signing up for the Stanford ReportSupport Think Fast Talk Smart by joining TFTS Premium.        

Olympic champion. Icon. And then… nothing.Apolo Ohno spent his entire life training for one thing - winning gold. He became the most decorated Winter Olympian in U.S. history, chasing perfection at all costs. But when the spotlight faded and the podium disappeared, he faced a battle far tougher than any race: Who was he without the sport?In this raw and honest conversation, Apolo opens up about the identity crisis that hit after retirement, the role of ego in driving success - and destroying it - and the painful process of starting over from scratch.This isn't just about sport. It's about life after the thing you thought defined you. It's about resilience, reinvention, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.Feeling stuck? If you need help getting out of your rut, Will can help - head to willnotfear.com to learn more about his coaching to get you off the hamster wheel. More from MTM at: https://mentalkingmindfulness.com/ Chapters:00:00 - Introduction04:17 - Masculinity Without a Father Figure07:58 - Success Through Small Wins08:43 - Athletic Success and Confidence14:35 - Gender Dynamics in Work and Education16:35 - Perspectives Across Class Lines18:38 - Men, Mindfulness, and Perception23:00 - The Tightrope of Masculinity and Its Impact27:45 - Effortlessly Yourself in Conversations34:51 - Injury Recovery and Mindful Detachment36:40 - Selfhood and Fragile Manhood46:37 - Teaching Daughters Vigilance52:47 - Reading Romantic Cues for Young Men58:19 - Emotions in Work and Raising Boys01:01:33 - Psychological Safety at Home01:03:15 - Emotional Miscommunication with Kids01:19:01 - Autonomy and Choosing Your CircleHosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.