Gregg Brown doesn't hold back!!

We took a different approach on this episode of the podcast. Instead of the where-the-conversation-goes-nobody-knows conversation I usually have with guests, Gregg and I discussed a number of statements.

⚠️ Everyone wants to know what the future of work is.

⚠️ Disruption is necessary for work to evolve.

⚠️ Taking action requires the right mindset.

⚠️ We need to get out of our comfort zone.

⚠️ Leadership is something that we can measure.

⚠️ Psychological safety is not a business term.

What do you think? 

Our responses might not be what you believe they would or should be. 

This conversation is about these important topics that we must understand and consciously engage with if we want organisations to be future ready. 

Those of you who know me will know that I'm a fan of taking statements like these, putting them on the table with your team and unpicking what they mean to you. It's a great place to start to increase clarity and alignment in your practice going forward.

We dive into concepts such as disruptive empathy, communities of understanding and PhDs in self-awareness!

Listen to or watch the episode and then send us a message to let us know what resonates, or where you have a different opinion. As you'll be able to tell, we love to talk in a down-to-earth way that simplifies the important stuff. 

I recommend you reach out to Gregg, Change and Future of Work Strategist, Speaker, Author, and Founder of Change Ready Leadership Solutions. Take a look at his resources and subscribe to his newsletter. And connect with me if you're interested in finding out more about how to lead engaging, healthy, high-performing workplaces.

More about Gregg:

Gregg Brown is an internationally sought-after consultant and speaker on building future ready organizations. Gregg was recently recognized as one of the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders change management. Starting out in a well known coffee business, over his 30-year career he has thrived in multiple leading roles in the healthcare, education, non-profit, and private sectors. With a graduate degree from the University of Leicester and as an associate member of the American Psychological Association, Gregg's keynotes and workshops have engaged thousands of people at Fortune 500 companies, governments, and humanitarian organizations worldwide to increase their impact and create positive change.

Links to contact Gregg:

LinkedIn: Gregg Brown

Facebook: GreggBrownTO

Instagram: @greggbrownto

X: @GreggBrownTO

Website: www.BeChangeReady.com

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Leadership Labs | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Future Ready by Experimentation - with Gemma Ellison | Beyond the Water Cooler

Talent: The Other 8 Boxes - Duncan Targett | Beyond the Water Cooler

Gregg Brown: Articles, Videos, Podcasts... oh my!

Purpose-driven businesses have become much more the norm in terms of what people seek. 

Companies know that to attract employees they need to provide opportunities that are meaningful and engaging.

However, retaining your workforce over time is a different challenge.

In this episode of the podcast, Rachel Steele of Huddle joins me to discuss how to engage a workforce so that they stay. That means getting some key factors right, including:

⭐ personal brand

⭐ promotion, progression and recognition

⭐ when bringing our whole-self to work is required

⭐ the need for versatility in an increasingly AI world

⭐ the need for employers to give permission

If you're thinking about how to recruit awesome people and how to keep them engaged, this is for you. Rachel provides some great advice about how to achieve this, starting from a different place to traditional practice. 

And if YOU are someone thinking about new opportunities, check out what you should be asking potential employers to feel confident they have your best engagement interests at heart. 

Imagine the difference that would make to how you show up at work?!

To find out more, give Rachel a shout....

To dive into the practicalities of creating and leading organisations fit for the future, talk with me.

More about Rachel:

Rachel works in career development for people and their teams, with a person-centred approach to identifying and actioning progression in their work life.

Her own journey has taken in silversmithing and sculptural metalwork, recruitment and head-hunting in marketing and communications, running return-to-work and personal development programmes, and coaching people through many important career decisions.

With over 15 years’ experience in recruiting, head hunting and career advice, for diverse clients including Virgin Trains, Vice Media, Marks & Spencer, Heathrow, Cadbury / Mondelez International, and Magic Light Pictures, she started her own business in 2016 to offer a more holistic approach to career development and building award-winning teams. She offers 1:1 coaching, workshops and recruitment to support clients throughout their career journeys.

Rachel is a Relational Dynamics 1st certified coach (ILM 7 equivalent), and member of the Association of Coaching.

Links to contact Rachel:

LinkedIn:

Rachel Steele

Huddle 

Website: www.the-huddle.co.uk

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Employee Engagement Guide For Managers - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Engagement Action Plans - It's Time for Change...

Luckily for us, Dr Jill McGarry is "a geek!"... her words, not mine!

The good news about that is she has a real love for actionable solutions to improve sleep. 💤

And who doesn't need a bit of that in their lives? 😴

In this episode of the podcast we hear, very clearly, why we need to banish beliefs such as...

"YOU SNOOZE, YOU LOSE!"

And we get to grips with practical advice for individuals and employers, including: 

✔️ coffee as a recommendation (yes... from a sleep expert!)

✔️ what to do when you can't sleep

✔️ equality

✔️ flexible working

✔️ 4 key factors for sleep hygiene - do YOU know what they are? Are you putting them into practice?

Check out the excellent resources that Jill shares, including those for managers, in the show notes. STOPBANG should become part of your toolkit.

More about Jill:

Dr Jill McGarry is a consultant clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience in working with mental health issues in the NHS. During this time she has become skilled and experienced in supporting people with sleep issues. In October 2023 Jill decided to leave the NHS because she recognised that companies were a missing piece of the jigsaw in improving sleep for individuals. By focusing on providing support and training to companies regarding sleep we can joinlty reduce staff fatigue, improve team effectiveness and ensure that companies excel.

Links to contact Jill:

LinkedIn: Dr Jill McGarry

Email: info@sleepbetterdoctor.co.uk

Website: www.sleepbetterdoctor.co.uk

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Leveraging ’Shuteye’ for Resilience (youtube.com) - Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce webinar

NHS choices (www.nhs.uk)

YouTube Matthew Walker TEDx Sleep talk, others and his book Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker | Waterstones

Fast Asleep by Michael Mosley | Waterstones & BBC programme in 2022  

Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaires (ESS) Epworth Sleepiness Scale | Asthma + Lung UK

(asthmaandlung.org.uk)

 STOP BANG questionnaire: Is it possible that you have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)? STOPBang Questionnaire (britishsnoring.co.uk)

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: 

What is self-harm? Possibly not something you associate with yourself. And not a behaviour that you attribute to your colleagues, friends or family members. 

But the reality could be very different and that is why this episode of the podcast and the free resource is so important. Self-harm is not uncommon and therefore you need to know about it.

Yaj Buljeean is a trainer and clinician at Harmless, the national leader in this field. She joins me to explore what we mean by self-harm, the stigma around it, and the prevalence and risk factors. Crucially, Yaj provides practical advice for companies to support their employees who are using this behaviour to cope with underlying distress.

If you're reading this thinking this topic isn't relevant. Think again. 

According to the WHO, 16 million people worldwide are reported to self-harm. We know that is likely to be an underestimate. My experience alone is that clients hide their behaviour... from their partner, their friends, their employers. 

Shame and embarrassment keeps mouths shut.

Convenient for companies? That's no longer okay. 

No idea how to think about it or where to start? That's understandable. 

And that's why the free, downloadable resource that covers a breadth of mental health disorders, as well as self-harm, has been created. It is a must for anyone looking to demonstrate care towards their workforce. You can get hold of your copy here: It's Time for Change: Resources

Stop passing the buck. National Self Harm Awareness Day is on 1st March. Be part of raising awareness around what is often a misunderstood topic. Find out more and request your media pack to help coordinate your effort here: National Self Harm Awareness Day 2024 - Harmless

Additional resources and podcast conversations about Depression & Anxiety and Addiction can be found here: It's Time for Change: Resources

More about Yaj:

Yaj works for Harmless CIC, a user-led self harm prevention service based in the East Midlands. With nearly 3 years of professional experience and 20 years of personal experience, Yaj aims to normalise the conversation around both self harm and suicide to enable anyone who's struggling to be able to reach out for support. As a trainer and clinician, breaking down barriers to access support is a high priority for her.

Links to contact Yaj:

LinkedIn:

Yaj Buljeean

Harmless

Website: harmless.org.uk

Facebook: The Academy at Harmless: Letstalktraining

X: @Yaj_Harmless

Email: yaj.buljeean@harmless.org.uk

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

My LinkedIn post in January that asked the question, 'Do soft skills need a rebrand?' attracted over 40 comments. 

Clearly people are interested in this topic.

So it seemed only natural to continue the conversation with someone who shared his view on that post, Andrew Bardsley, Founder of JackHR. As someone who focuses on helping tech companies stand out and keep good people, Andrew has some great insights into a world of both hard and soft skills. 

💻 We unpick how soft skills sit alongside tech.

🧠 We consider how AI and human skills will feature in the future of work.

♂️♀️ We explore gender differences and the teaching of soft skills.

🚧 We tackle some of the barriers to investing in the development of these critical skills.

💥 We offer our opinion on how soft skills should be positioned in business to have greatest impact.

🌙 And we discuss getting lost on the moon!

Whether you're interested in leadership development, management development, recruitment, onboarding, learning and development, emotional intelligence, coaching, or psychological safety, there are some little nuggets of wisdom that could just shift some important parts of your practice.

Listen to or watch us talk, and let us know how you go about positioning and developing the not-so-soft-skills in your organisation.

If you want to find the right space for developing such skills in your organisation, Leadership and Manager Labs might just be your thing. Check them out here: Leader & Manager Labs | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

More about Andrew:

Employee retention is a £1Billion problem here in the UK which is why, in 2023, Andrew decided to launch JackHR - a business dedicated to helping scaling tech companies keep hold of their amazing talent.

Andrew's journey started in the North West of England, before making the 300 mile trip north to study Philosophy at The University of Stirling. When he left in 2013, the job market for ancient Greek philosophers was quiet, so he started in HR instead.

Andrew has spent the last decade working with businesses to better support their managers, provide teams with amazing growth opportunities and help individuals thrive through 1:1 coaching.

Links to contact Andrew:

LinkedIn:

Andrew Bardsley

JackHR

TikTok: @jackofallhr

Website: jackhr.com

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Focus on 'soft skills' at our Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

The Most In-Demand Skills for 2023 | LinkedIn

11 Essential...

Do you know...

🏢 What your office is for?

✅ Which elements to consider when designing workplace where people actively want to spend time?

🌍 What global research tells us about how we can help people do their best work in the many places that work happens?

😊 How to cultivate a joyful workplace environment?

💭 The link between physical workplaces and psychological wellbeing?

🙌 Strategies and frameworks for building a work environment that amplifies productivity, happiness and job satisfaction?

As part of Leicestershire's Innovation Festival session at De Montfort University on 12 February, I'll be joining Rob Day and Chloe Sproston of Blueprint Interiors, Kris Newman of Steelcase, Nicky Harding and Lis Ku from De Montfort University to discuss 'Designing Tomorrow's Workplace'. 

Blueprint Interiors have a unique approach to designing workplaces, based on putting people first.

In this podcast, Rob focuses on the psychology behind design, encompassing the Human Givens. 

Find out more by listening to or watching the conversation and then book your place at the event here: Event Details for Designing Tomorrow's Workplace: A Blueprint for Innovation (evolutive.co.uk)

More about Rob:

Having studied at the University of Lancaster for a degree in Management Science & Marketing, Rob Day spent a 15-year career in Sales, Design & Project Management in the Commercial Office and Leisure sectors.

In 2001 he founded his business - Blueprint Interiors Limited, a specialist design & fit-out company focused on designing and redeveloping commercial interiors. The company is now recognised as the leading workplace consultancy in the Midlands and this approach has led to significant growth as the economy comes out of the pandemic crisis.

They are firmly established in Ashby de la Zouch – celebrating their 23rd birthday this year - and employ 18 staff directly with many more subcontractors indirectly dependent upon their business throughout the Midlands.

As Chairman & Founder, Rob has successfully overseen the growth of the business and the succession plan to bring the next generation of leaders into the organisation.

Links to contact Rob:

LinkedIn:

Rob Day

Blueprint Interiors Limited

Facebook: @BlueprintInteriorsLtd

Instagram:

The people who need the most development and most time are leaders, but they are precisely the people who don't invest in themselves. Are you one of them?

That's why Gemma Ellison of Heart Leadership and I created Labs. 

Leanne Ledger, Senior Brand Strategist and Partner at Emperor, and Sarah Cockroft, Manager at OceanWise Ltd join Gemma and I in this podcast to share the impact that a new approach to development has had for them.

We contrast a conscious process that centres around being human, with traditional models of leadership and manager training. We hear how Labs have changed practice in terms of creating space for people to become more self-aware, to think, to plan and to perform well.

And that's hugely important when people in these roles usually focus on supporting others; turning the lens to look inwards is empowering.

Using a test and learn approach requires analysis, hypotheses and creativity. When we apply that process to our real-world challenges, we grow and innovate. 

Whether the focus is about understanding your place and purpose as a leader, or feeling confident to try new things and reduce pressure on ourselves to be perfect, there is real value from engaging with these topics. Learn about what's most relevant to you. Could that be... 

❓ how you show up for your team or within your peer group, and for your self in terms of mental wellbeing?

❓ how to lead aspects of your business better, from change and uncertainty, to emotional intelligence, psychological safety, or having effective conversations?

What is it that Leanne or Sarah say that appeals to you? I'd challenge anyone to listen to their experience and not feel a teeny bit inspired! 💡👏🏼

Find out more about the Labs here or drop us a line to have a chat.

If you're interested in bringing Labs in-house, 🏢 reach out to Gem or I. We're excited about the interest we've had in a company-based approach to developing people. 

2024 might just be your year for trying something new!

More about Leanne:

Leanne Ledger is a Senior Brand Consultant at Emperor, a corporate communications agency. She works with businesses to help define and articulate what makes them distinct, relevant and authentic to create a strategy and positioning that will elevate their reputation, inspire and motivate their people and make them more competitive and successful. With over 20 years in advertising and brand strategy, Leanne is also passionate about people development, ED&I, allyship and sustainability, so is involved in other initiatives as well as being lead singer in a ten-piece band (which has its own joys and challenges)!

Links to contact Leanne:

LinkedIn:

Leanne Ledger

Emperor

Website: emperor.works

More about Sarah:

Sarah has just started at

Did you know...

• Only 46% of employees trust their manager to do what is right, dropping to 32% for senior leaders?
• 72% leaders report they feel used up at the end of the day, an increase of 12% from 2020?
• Fewer than half of leaders find their jobs purposeful. Yet, leaders with a strong sense of purpose are 9 times more likely to feel engaged?
• Only 29% companies train for the crucial skills that leaders want to develop.

The world is evolving. Expectations are changing. The impact on your people is real. 

Our world is becoming more experimental, pushing boundaries, stepping outside the norm. As Marshall Goldsmith says, "What got you here won't get you there."

And so your practice must shift to stay ahead of the game.

💭 We need peers with whom we can unpick challenges and explore new ways to think about them.

🧑🏼‍🤝‍🧑 We crave a human, interactive experience for development; to emotionally connect and focus on what matters most to us.

🔬 We feel excited by the ability to learn, apply, test and review.

How are you making that happen?

Regardless of size, your organisation can apply key principles adopted by the likes of Booking.com and Toyota, to increase engagement and performance.

In this podcast, Gemma Ellison and I discuss how, including the need to create a meaningful space for experimentation to happen. Given the constant battle for time and attention, that's a significant challenge. 

But, it's worth it. Your people know what is most meaningful and what's most likely to enable greater success. Finding a way to nurture that is key.

Access the webinar that dives into this in greater depth here: Leadership and Manager Labs

Don't:

❌ leave the development of your people and processes to chance

❌ use existing processes simply because 'that's the way we do things' 

❌ grab a quick fix or be persuaded by marketing that promotes a blanket approach 

Instead: 

✔️ identify what your people observe, need and are inspired to try

✔️ urge them to plan new ways of working, test and evaluate with intention

✔️ create a healthy, thriving, high-performing and empowered workforce

Join the likes of Amazon, Facebook, Google and Microsoft who have found experimentation to be a game changer. 

How are you 💡empowering💡 your employees to shape the future of work?

Contact us for an experiment design template to support you on your journey.

More about Gemma:

Gemma Ellison, Leadership and Culture Director and founder of Heart Leadership, knows that employee engagement is at an all time low (it’s estimated that only 15% of employees are engaged globally). That’s where Heart Leadership comes in; they evolve organisational culture to create environments where people feel genuinely valued, inspired and empowered. The result? Increased happiness, productivity, innovation and profit.

Gemma's journey started as a lawyer. Someone once described her as having a ‘sensitivity for the human condition’. That sensitivity and curiosity about human behaviour led her to pivot, turning her attention to workplace culture.

As Director of Culture, she's seen first hand the remarkable impact of nurturing a purpose driven work environment. This happens by design - not by accident. The world is changing rapidly, and the way most organisations currently work isn’t fit for purpose, both for now and moving into the future. She believes in experimenting within organisations to find unique, bespoke ways to enhance...

Is your organisation fuelling addiction? 

Do you understand the causes and triggers that can lead to someone engaging with addictive behaviour?

Do you know the behaviours that might constitute addiction, or that could manifest into addiction? 

Richie Paxton of the EPIC Restart Foundation has lived experience. He joins Amantha King and I to share a heap of insight about how to be more aware and support people living with addiction, including those impacted by someone else using this behaviour.

If you think this topic is not relevant for you, watch this short film produced for #AddictionAwarenessWeek2023: Everybody Knows Somebody... it's 17 minutes that could change so much.

Everybody knows someone.

The downloadable Addiction resource is part of a series that so far also features a resource for Depression & Anxiety. It is full of advice about making addiction relevant to YOU and your organisation, including what to look for and how to help. 

Get your free copy here: It's Time for Change: Resources

Harmful behaviours can quickly snowball when we experience a significant life event, unmet emotional needs, or we don't have appropriate coping strategies to deal with life's challenges.

Richie shares his story. It reminded me of the incredible novel I read recently, Demon Copperhead, by Barbara Kingsolver. Addiction is a reality.

Our conversation also reminded me that we often have NO idea about what's going on for people behind their mask. We make assumptions about people's lives, particularly when they appear to have all they need to be happy. But perception is a very unique thing. 

You don't need to fix the problems. 

But you do need to hold space for people.

Space is a recurring theme, whether I'm focusing on mental wellbeing, workplace culture or leadership and management. Get this right and you'll get a lot right in terms of looking after your people.

Find out more in the resource. 

Get in touch for help to develop your workforce to have compassionate conversations and to gain confidence supporting and empowering employees to live their best selves.

Back to my first question. Are you fuelling addiction or are you part of the solution?

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

Download the Resources and listen to/watch the episodes: It's Time for Change: Resources

Everybody Knows Somebody - feature edit (17mins) - Addiction Awareness Week 2023. - YouTube

Signs of Addiction - Spot the Danger - Blueprints for Recovery

Managing drug and alcohol misuse at work

A Chief Inspector is not necessarily the first person who springs to mind as the driving force for self-care, better mental health and launching a podcast! 

But Stewart Codling of Thames Valley Police is modelling exactly how leaders can embrace the challenge of changing expectations by doing things differently. 

Stewart joins me on my podcast to explain how he is going about improving mental health, particularly for men in a traditional industry.

Police are people who wear a metaphorical cape each day to protect others. It's entirely different asking them to look inwards to protect themselves. That requires removing the cape and being vulnerable.

Stewart is an 'ordinary' guy. Actually, he's quite incredible. But that's because he's chosen to be - he's not an expert in mental health. His expertise is in being a human, and specifically male.

He has made his intention clear to improve mental health for men at work, and he is actively finding ways to show people how policing can be different. 

That's important. It blows the excuses about 💥 our organisation being too big 💥our industry being too traditional/ male, out of the water.

Stewart is clear that being an advocate for mental health does not displace who he really is. It does not affect his status or detract from his ability to be 'tough' when that's called for. 

But it does improve empathy, compassion and the ability to have conversations that really make a difference. It empowers people. Stewart shares the evidence.

We discuss so much, including individual responsibility, prostate screening, and webinar topics such as 'male behaviour at Christmas.'

Being clumsy during conversations is fine, as long as you're listening, and sometimes talking. Stewart's words as we discussed humility said it all...

"If I make a fool of myself I don't care. I'm going to do it anyway."

How able are you to get beyond your status and do something different, because you know it's right for someone else⁉️

Does your mask of expectation, hierarchy and control hold you back⁉️ 

P.S. Listen to find out why Stewart says he's a fig roll!!! 

More about Stewart:

Stewart has been with his wife for 22 years and they have 3 children who continually amaze and inspire them; he adores his family. Stewart has been in policing 4 years longer, serving with two police forces, West Yorkshire and Thames Valley Police. He has been lucky to have been a detective, in firearms roles and latterly to have held the role of Chair of their Men's Forum, TVP's staff support network for men facing challenges. He is proud to lead on work to reform the paternity pay provision within the force, as well as talking about and promoting suicide prevention. He loves policing.

Links to contact Stewart:

LinkedIn: Stewart Codling

Thames Valley Police 

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

Home | Thames Valley Police

Police Federation of England & Wales (polfed.org)

Home - The Curtis Palmer...

Bad managers are causing one in three staff to walk*. 

Luckily for OceanWise, Sarah Cockcroft isn't one of these managers. She is only two weeks into her role there, but she is going in with her eyes wide open to what is needed of her. 

Sarah has the benefit of hindsight. She is not new to management and that is why I invited her to join me to discuss the very real problems that are existing in many organisations today. 

Instead of starting with clear ideas about what she wants, she has armed herself with questions to find out what her team needs of her. Sarah knows that this will help her identify how to be, and where to spend her time. 

Are you that confident in your role?

Probably not when you consider data from the CMI that found as many as 82% of new managers in the UK are “accidental managers” – embarking on the role with no formal training in management or leadership.

Sarah explains key ideas that managers and leaders need to explore and consciously develop:

• the timing of training for managers new into their role 
• essential skills; what manager development should focus on
• vulnerability and authenticity when you're under pressure
• the importance of knowing someone has your back
• key factors for shaping a successful team
• how to have good one-to-ones
• the different roles of managers and leaders; can they be the same person?
• THE NEED FOR TIME AND SPACE!

If you're still not convinced that you need to do anything after listening to Sarah, find out how much money your company spends on recruitment vs retention. 

And look at your wider data. How many of YOUR employees are walking?

🫵 If you would like help understanding what good support and development looks like for managers, get in touch. Whether it's workshops, coaching or the Labs that were discussed in the podcast, we can shape practice together that enables both your managers and their teams to thrive. 

Reach out to Sarah too - she is an awesome manager with a wealth of experience. 

* New study: Bad managers and toxic work culture causing one in three staff to walk - CMI

More about Sarah:

Sarah has just started at OceanWise as Monitoring Manager for the oceanographic monitoring team. She is very excited to start something new and to join a growing team supporting ports, harbours, marine operations teams around the world.

Sarah has been an oceanographer her whole career, gradually shifting from a practical on-a-boat oceanographer to a team leader. She has always been a people-person and firmly believe that people will be more invested in the cause if they are engaged, challenged, trusted, and respected. She loves mentoring people, especially those early in their careers, and think it is so important to give people time and encouragement in their development.

Links to contact Sarah:

LinkedIn:

Sarah Cockroft

OceanWise

Resources & References

Leadership and...

What are you growing? 🪴

Is the PH level in your environment producing what you want?

And what have you grown into?

Are you in the right soil?

Have you become what you WANT to be? What you NEED to be?

I was inspired when I heard Courtney Hobbs share his experience during a session where we both presented for macmillan cancer earlier this year.

Today he joins me to expand on his story that includes a need to fit in and how quickly things can get out of control. His earlier life meant his eyes were opened to how easily we can become what we don't want to be, if we don't choose how to live life.

That's about intention.

And for Courtney, it was about the art of reinvention.

Courtney has THE best laugh, energy and sense of humour.

He is an ❤️‍🔥 AWESOME ❤️‍🔥 story-teller.

His take on resilience is completely grounded and relatable. I love his underlying theme of change.

As Courtney says, most things in life aren't permanent. We could do ourselves a favour by reducing self-inflicted pressure to get things right, from the start. As he so brilliantly says, don't build a house where you should pitch a tent 🏕️ - recognise the need to pause and take stock, or try something new, without it having to be the place to stay long term.

"Love your family, work hard, stay humble, and be kind!" That advice is spot on Courtney. You don't need to be an intellectual to know what's important. And in fact, the simplicity of these messages is what makes them so powerful.

How do you keep your sense of perspective and ability to adapt as your self awareness grows on your journey?

More about Courtney:

Courtney is an all round creative thinker and is passionate about photography and video content. Starting out as a freelance photographer and having success with working with brands such as OK Magazine, Chang Beer, Mecca Bingo, Team GB, Dulux and many more he, alongside his business partner Jack, have built an innovative content creation business called Collective which enables brands all across the UK and beyond to have access to high quality content usually only reserved for big brands with big budgets. Courtney is passionate about and dedicated to his work and family and has a unique outlook on how to tackle life's problems and how to chase your dreams, largely due to his experiences growing up.

Links to contact Courtney:

LinkedIn:

Courtney Hobbs

Collective Digital Uk

Instagram: @court.hobbs

Website: collectivedigital.uk

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

Are you looking to develop tomorrow's leaders to be able to take the business into a different place from where it is today? Or, are you looking for future leaders who most closely resemble those in leadership positions now? 

That's a great question that Duncan Targett, my guest on this episode of the podcast, asks when we discuss talent.

And who can resist talking with someone whose surname lends itself so brilliantly to the name of his company, On Targett Consulting?!!

The conversation is spot on, helping listeners think about how your company sets itself apart from others. 

We dive into the much maligned 9-box grid to map talent, and Duncan explains how the bedrock of company success is not found in the box that you might think!

He also asks us to consider the all important question: Do people want to develop? It sounds obvious but when did you last ask that of your people? Are opportunities in your organisation based on assumptions? Or are those opportunities even present?

If you're anything to do with talent development, business planning, strategy, L&D, management or leadership, this is for you! 

More about Duncan:

Duncan Targett is a Talent Development expert who has worked internationally and consulted at C-level, across multiple industries for the world’s biggest global brands (PepsiCo, Disney, Sportradar and dunnhumby) and has the rare combination of HR and commercial experience.

He works with organisations to develop Talent Development strategies that drive high-performance, enable talent & succession planning and focused L&D.

Links to contact Duncan:

LinkedIn: Duncan Targett

Website: www.ontargettconsulting.com

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

To develop your people based on the specific needs identified in your organisation, find out more about our Manager and Leadership Labs: Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Brought to you Inhouse, they provide a development opportunity to unpick your specific challenges, learn practical approaches to address them, shape experiments to test changes in practice, and evaluate the impact of new ways of working, all customised to your specific context.

Our next open Lab starts in September 2024 and brings people together from different organisations to share and learn from each other, as challenges are explored and solutions shaped, based on your data. 

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

Did you know that in Q3 of 2022-23, antidepressants were the most prescribed class of drug?

More and more people are struggling with anxiety and depression, yet we conveniently turn a blind eye. It's easier to assume that employers are not responsible. However, when we consider the significant role work plays in mental health, whether that's adding to problems, or in contrast creating the conditions to thrive, we must take a collective responsibility.

This resource is all about depression and anxiety. It focuses on what you need to know to support the people in your organisation. It brings you practical, down-to-earth, realistic advice and strategies.

To accompany the launch of this resource, David Saab of The Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, and Jim Gabriel, Chief Commercial Officer at CardMedic, join Amantha King and I to discuss their experience of depression and anxiety in the workplace. They share what they have learned and what they know would have helped, with the benefit of hindsight.

Our intention is that people can use these lessons and our resource to engage purposefully with this agenda from the outset.

Turning the ongoing decline in mental health goes beyond webinars and self-care. This is about the fundamentals of good business that puts relationships and human needs at the heart of every-day practice.

Some of my key take-aways from this conversation:

❗️ Having the knowledge to articulate our feelings is important.

❓ How have you enabled your workforce to be self-aware and communicate effectively?

❗️ We need space to explore and make connections between how we feel and what we experience.

❓ How are you intentionally creating space to have meaningful conversations that unpick the impact of what people experience? 

❗️ Nothing is more important than trust, and having peers who have your back and with whom you have genuine relationships.

❓ How do you put this aspect of your practice centre stage?

❗️ Companies claim to be more understanding but in reality people can still be reluctant to admit they're struggling.

❓ Do you know who is NOT speaking up?

Get beyond the eye-rolling of sceptics in your company by asking:

❓What is the evidence that what you currently do is working?

❓What do your numbers really show, for example around employee absence?

❓How onboard and competent are your leaders and managers to fulfil their responsibility?

It's time to challenge traditional ways of doing business and the 'easy' fixes that add to the noise. Instead, really examine practice within your organisation and start from a focus on what it means to be human. Compassion makes a real difference to employee performance.

Fact. Simple.

Download your free resource now: It's Time for Change: Resources

Let me know what you find most helpful, and what you need help with.

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

I love talking with people about exceptional employee experience, and Mike Mair is one of those people who knows a thing or two about it. He is passionate about helping people grow and develop. 

This conversation is a step-by-step exploration of EX throughout the employee lifecycle. It follows a road map that includes:

📌Recruitment

📌Onboarding

📌Training

📌Work environment

📌Leadership

📌Strategy and vision

📌Outstanding team

📌High performance

📌Balance

📌People Development

📌Culture

📌Reward and recognition

📌Accelerated learning

📌Business intelligence

That was a lot to cover in an hour (which is why it's a smidge more). But it's worth it. 

If you are motivated to provide an outstanding 'end to end' employee experience, this episode of the podcast is not to be missed. 

Listen or watch and then let's talk. This is our area of expertise so we can help you create the space, reflect on current practice, and shape the future. And that enables you to focus more effectively on your area of expertise. Connect with Mike, and let us know where you're at on the journey. 

More about Mike:

Mike Mair is a highly professional and qualified Learning & Development (L&D) Director FCIPD with significant knowledge and experience gained leading major change and transformation initiatives ensuring talent attraction, development, and retention. He has a proven ability to work at board level developing and executing key L&D strategies facilitating business and people growth. Mike is proud of building high-performing teams that deliver commercial results with true customer focus. He prides himself on his ability to develop strong and sustainable business relationships built on trust and respect and use of his people-focused strengths and value set. Mike wants to influence and inspire.

Links to contact Mike:

LinkedIn: Mike Mair

Facebook: mike.mair.98

Website: www.mairdevelopment.co.uk

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

Mental Health Onboarding Course | Lisa LLoyd | LinkedIn

How It's Time for Change helps shape employee experience: My work with companies | It's time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Developing the Intelligent Young Footballer Paperback by  Mike Mair (amazon.co.uk)

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

From being told he wouldn’t get anywhere in life, to becoming Operations Manager at Guernsey Mind, Chris Chamberlain likes to challenge expectations!

In this episode of the podcast, we delve into shaping yourself as an intentional leader, and the style of situational leadership. 

We consider the balance between being authentic and changing our style to suit others. How do we get self-awareness, empathy and being proactive right?

Chris explains how to challenge existing practice to do what is right despite constant push-back. He identifies what it takes to lead in such a deliberate way, and the advantages of doing so. 

There are some great resources too, for understanding situational leadership, the pros and cons, necessary qualities, and case-examples. 

What is your style of leadership?

If you're not sure about a label to describe it, don't worry. What is important is that you are intentionally creating and adapting your style to best suit you and your team.

❓ Want to know how? Let's chat over a coffee ☕.

More about Chris:

Chris Chamberlain's passion is human and workplace performance through situational leadership. He is the operations manager for Guernsey Mind, and oversees workplace training, therapy services, and events and campaigns.

Links to contact Chris:

LinkedIn:

Chris Chamberlain 

Guernsey Mind

Website: www.guernseymind.org.gg

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

What Is Situational Leadership, and How Do You Practice It? (leaders.com)

What is situational leadership? (With examples and traits) (www.indeed.com)

Tackling Anxiety Collectively (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Stress Mapping - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Resources | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Is Fear blocking your leadership? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Consider yourself a good leader? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

People First for Business Success - It's Time for Change...

Allyship.

Seb Randle and I discuss what makes this an important topic... FOR MEN.

Women are great at promoting women, but without men onboard, we hit a glass ceiling. 

But it's not 'all about the women at the expense of men'. 

We need to get beyond stereotypes and look at a more inclusive approach that benefits everyone. 

We discuss the all important question for much of the workforce: What's in it for men?

Every individual in an organisation has a part to play. Every individual benefits.

We also discuss:

• Barbie
• Privilege
• Male Suicide
• Body Dysmorphia

There are a number of great resources in the show notes.

⁉️ What do YOU do to promote people less privileged than you in your workplace⁉️

More about Seb:

Seb Randle is an ex media strategist and Director, now delivering coaching services to creative businesses across the UK through his people focused consultancy, The Helpful Space. He was the first ever Development Coach at Global Social Media Agency Social Chain, and was more recently hired as the first ever Head of Allyship for Bloom North, a not for profit committee supporting the development of women within the comms industry.

Links to contact Seb:

LinkedIn:

Seb Randle

The Helpful Space

Instagram: @thehelpfulspace

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

7 Superpowers of Women in the Workplace (Part 1) – Dr Shawn Andrews - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

7 Superpowers of Women in the Workplace (Part 2) – Dr Shawn Andrews (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Framework for Discussion: Tackling Anxiety Collectively - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Katy Leeson | LinkedIn

Men Leaning In Survey (Token Man)

How To Be A Better Ally To Women (Seb Randle LinkedIn)

Why Allyship Matters: A Lived Example (The Helpful Space, Instagram)

She Believed She Could, So She Did (Bloom North article, Seb Randle)

Masculinity In The

Olivia Sharp, Partner in HR Practice at Eton Bridge Partners, has produced the Chief People Officer Pathway Report, a comprehensive set of findings based on research into the CPO role. She joined me on the podcast to discuss the outcomes and how we apply that to the world of HR and the future of work. 

We discuss terminology and how HR titles can be a controversial subject. 

We explore differences in internal/ external appointments, gender and geography.

We consider squiggly careers and routes into the CPO role. 

Olivia shares her observations about career breaks becoming an opportunity for curiosity rather than judgement.

And we talk about the importance of sector experience and diversity of thought.

As usual, joining the dots came up and Olivia made the connection with ESG, mental health, wellbeing and performance.

Match-making and husbands also come up!

The over-arching message that I took from this conversation was the fact that there are no 'rules'. Individual people and organisations have to be clear about the specifics that are important to them, whether that's about gaps, energy, interests or strengths.

Data is vital. As a psychologist, I want to know what works, what doesn't, and most importantly, why. But organisations are becoming more interested in data too. Being able to hypothesise, analyse and test approaches in your unique context is essential. That's why I'm a fan of Leadership Labs - find out more here: Leadership and Manager Labs

More about Olivia:

Olivia specialises in executive search for EtonBridge Partners’ HR Practice, with a primary focus on Chief People Officers and their teams. Her practitioner background in HR, gained in senior positions in a FTSE100 environment, combined with extensive general management experience, is a unique combination for clients and candidates alike. Eton Bridge Partners is a market leading executive search, interim management and consulting business operating all over the world, from our offices in London and Windsor. A Chartered Member of the CIPD, Olivia has a particular interest in diversity in the workplace, particularly mental health, social mobility and neurodiversity, and uses her first hand experience of delivering business turnarounds and wide scale people change, including complex industrial relations environments to support clients of all shapes and sizes, globally. Closer to home, she was delighted to support Eton Bridge itself shift to a 9 day working fortnight 10 months ago. Outside of work, Olivia is ‘Mummy’ to three young children and is proud to ‘parent loudly’ at work, and tries to squeeze in a bit of running, cycling and ballroom dancing in between everything else!

Links to contact Olivia:

LinkedIn:

Olivia Sharp

Eton Bridge Partners Ltd

Website: etonbridgepartners.com

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this...

Do you have a 'JOB'? 

According to Mike's dad, job stands for 'Just Over Broke'. Not very inspiring, energising or engaging if you want to live a meaningful, fulfilled life. 

As an entrepreneur, Michael Brennan is anything but that. 

In this honest and self-aware conversation, Mike shares his challenges, what he has learnt, and in his view, what leading a business is all about. 

We get to grips with:

• Reinventing ourselves to intentionally become who we want, learning from past experience
• The balance when setting up and growing a business with self care (and getting it wrong)
• Qualitative vs quantitative data to inform organisational development
• DEI and fairness and how to integrate different generational expectations within a workforce
• The need to amplify voices and to listen
• Clarity about strengths to maintain energy and mental wellbeing

⁉️ Do you know how to protect YOURSELF in your position of leading others? 

And are you doing that, for your own performance and wellbeing?

⁉️ Do you feel confident asking THE questions that really reveal what's going on beneath the surface of your company? 

Do you know what those questions are?

⁉️ Do you feel able to fulfil the role that is required of you by your team? 

Do you REALLY know what that is (no assumptions allowed!)?

I have 20 years experience as a psychologist. Supporting people to be their best selves and to create the right spaces for others to feel good and perform well is what I do.

To understand more about leading with success from someone who has been there, done it and who has heaps of great advice, Mike is your man. 

Check out Stribe and Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter for more resources to help you on your journey.

More about Mike:

'If at first you don't succeed, try, try again'

Michael Brennan loves turning ideas and visions into global businesses. 

An experienced CEO, he has raised over +£2m in Angel and VC investment to date and scaled businesses to £500k ARR. His passion is starting businesses and empowering teams to lead these businesses to success.

People > Product > Profit. In that order.

Mike's life objectives are the 3 B's:

1. Be happy 

2. Be healthy

3. Build a billion £ company

His awards include Forbes 30 Under 30 Entrepreneur of the Year, GP Bullhound Northern Star Winner, Tech Nations Rising Star Winner, North West’s most exciting company 2020, Nominet Trust 100 global social tech for good winner, and shortlisted for EY Entrepreneur Rising Star. 

Mike's experience includes: 10 years' experience as SaaS Co-Founder and CEO, developing 2x software products; raising £2 million to date across Angel & VC networks; growing Tootoot Ltd to £450k ARR; recruiting and managing teams; chairing boards; creating and managing 2x advisory boards; appointing high-profile Chairperson's including Terry Flanagan and Tim Raffle; generating £2 million in sales; average enterprise annual contract value of £42,000; securing UK and International sales across 11 countries; and securing Government contracts and independent evaluation.

Links to contact Mike:

LinkedIn: Mike Brennan

Resources &...

Avoidable employee harm.

What springs to mind when you hear that term? 

I think it sums up brilliantly the damage that processes can have on organisations and individuals when they fail to focus enough on humans at the heart of them.

And let's be honest, many processes have been shaped historically, or exist simply because that's what was put in place without much consideration of the big picture. 

But is there a better way... One that cares for employees, the organisation as a whole, and their customers ⁉️ 

Those are some of the points that Andrew Cooper, Head of the ‘Avoidable Employee Harm’ Programme, and Dr Adrian Neal, Head of the Employee Wellbeing Service, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, NHS Wales address in this episode of the podcast.

Hear about the case of Alex, and how responses to his mistake impacted on what happened for him and his organisation.

It's a question of formal routes vs a compassionate approach.

Which do you revert to❓ And why❓

And does embarrassment about not getting it right YET hinder progress? We need to acknowledge that things could be better in order for us to invest in making the right connections and having the conversations that put the 'human' back into business.

If you're keen to challenge the status quo but feeling overwhelmed about where to start, listen, be inspired and start asking the questions about your practice.

And if you would like someone to walk with you on that journey, reach out. 

More about Andrew & Adrian:

Andrew Cooper is head of programmes for the ‘avoidable employee harm’ work within Aneurin Bevan University Health Board and is currently undertaking research exploring the implementation of disciplinary investigations in the NHS and their impact on both individuals and organisations. With a background in healthcare improvement and innovation, he has held senior communications roles across the private, public and voluntary sectors, including director of communications for Public Health Wales and Life Sciences Hub Wales. 

Dr Adrian Neal qualified as a clinical psychologist in 2003 and for the first ten years worked within NHS England's Adult Community and Acute Adult Mental Health Services. Moving to Wales in 2014 to take up the role of Head of Wellbeing within Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, he has been involved in a number of collaborative projects with the Welsh Ambulance Service, Welsh NHS Finance Academy, Gwent Police, Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service, London Air Ambulance, Health Education and Innovation Wales, Powys University Health Board, National Academy of Head Teachers (Wales) and Welsh Government.

Links to contact Andrew & Adrian:

LinkedIn:

ajcooper40

adrian-neal

aneurin-bevan-university-health-board

X (Twitter):

@cooperaj

Kathy Heath of the Healthy Minds Club, a personalised health and wellbeing platform that connects users with experts, products and services to achieve better wellbeing and lifestyle goals, joins me today.

As one of the 'experts' at the club, I was excited to be talking with Kathy about proactive approaches to wellbeing in this episode of the podcast. 

We cover everything from HSE to ESG, and wellbeing strategies that really make a difference. 

This episode is very timely as Healthy Minds Club is hosting an event The Roadmap to a Healthy Mind & Healthy Workforce on 26 September, in London. I'll be there talking about careers and workloads, and personality types and imposter syndrome. The agenda demonstrates just how holistic their approach is.

Employers or those serving employers who would want to come as a VIP, with a complimentary ticket, should contact Kathy directly at hello@healthymindsclub.com. Hope to see you there!!

And if you're listening to this after the event, don't fret! Reach out to Kathy or myself for more info about best practice.

More about Kathy:

Kathy Heath is a Multi Award Winning Entrepreneur with a 20+ year career in senior positions in Financial Services across retail banking, Issuing (Credit, Gift, Prepaid), acquiring & open banking globally and more recently in the Wellbeing space. Kathy speaks 4 languages and lives in the North West with her 10 year old son and her husband.

As a long time leader of people, Kathy is passionate about people & wellbeing and has founded two wellbeing companies. Most recently, the Healthy Minds Club, the UK’s first personalised health & wellbeing gift card & membership platform. We provide proactive & personalized mental, physical & financial wellbeing solutions to prevent issues from occurring in the first place helping people to thrive in their lives.

Healthy Minds Club won the Best B2B Award at the GCVA Awards, Best Health & Wellbeing Provider Supplier at the Incentive Awards in 2022, along with 2 x Expert wins at the Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards 2022. Kathy was also the proud winner of the WiiN Global Award in 2022.

Links to contact Kathy:

LinkedIn:

Kathy Heath

Healthy Minds Club

Facebook: Healthy Minds Club

Website: healthymindsclub.com

Resources & References

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Watch this episode on YouTube

PRIME used to conjure up thoughts about the drink that appears to have become a fad (and that my son gets super excited about the prospect of seeing on a supermarket shelf) 🤦🏻‍♀️. 

But then I met Dr Karen Cripps, Senior Lecturer in Leadership at Oxford Brookes University.

Karen informed me about PRiME, an acronym for 'principles for responsible management education' and it's taken on a whole new (and much more helpful!) meaning.

In this episode of the podcast, we uncover:

• the key sustainability mindset principles
• 'green hushing'
• purposeful dissatisfaction
• 'power over, power with or power under'
• the role of the Johari Window in a VUCA world
• the role of mental health self-awareness in enabling the right mindset
• the concept of Ikigai; finding our sweet spot where skills, passions and values align
• the need to connect with emotion to shift motivation from extrinsic targets to intrinsic drive
• adding curiosity to your diary to promote connection

 If you're interested in 'people, planet and profit' (thank you Chris Williams of Jennings who used the term, talking about BCorps on a previous episode of my podcast), you'll get a lot from this conversation.

And I'd recommend Karen as a source of great insight and expertise if you would like to know more about how to manage responsibly by educating a mindset fit for the future of work.

If you want to find out how to...

• increase mental health self-awareness
• engage people in teams shaped around meaning, purpose and psychological safety
• create greater connection to allow for collaboration and creativity

...get in touch. I'm here to support you to get the people side of business right.

More about Karen:

Karen is a Senior Lecturer in Leadership at Oxford Brookes University Business School, and a Subject Coordinator for the Business and Management undergraduate programme. Karen joined Brookes in 2022, following previous lecturing at the University of Winchester, the University of Nottingham, and Leeds Metropolitan University (now Leeds Beckett). She has also led on HE programmes for a partner college of Buckinghamshire New University and University College of Birmingham.

With a long-established scholarship and teaching profile in sustainability leadership and management, Karen is committed to supporting student success and developing links to business networks and practice. She has joined the World Economic 'Global Shapers' initiative as a mentor on the 'Sustainability Leaders' programme and is a Co-Lead for the United Nations 'Principles of Responsible Management Education' (PRME) London and South East network group. Karen is an ambassador the PRME Working Group on the Sustainability Mindset and this is a key concept in her current research practice. One of her current interests is the intersection between supporting students’ career construction for environmental and social sustainability.

Links to contact Karen:

LinkedIn: Dr Karen Cripps

Website:

Are you a popcorn fan? 

You might rethink your love of it after hearing about Theran's experience. Role-modelling taking a sick day did not go as planned! 

Aside from dealing with his popcorn damage, Theran Knighton-Fitt of mygrow is on a mission. 

He is challenging the notion of culture as a means to an end when humans are turned into resources. Instead, Theran is redirecting the conversation to one that is more about being human in place of extracting value. 

It will be no surprise then to see some of what we talk about: 

• Capitalism
• A different take on the expectation that leaders should should build culture. 
• The power of sharing our unique stories as an alternative to psychometrics for understanding how to engage with each other
• Challenging terrible excuses such as, "It's not personal, it's business."
• Practices, postures and principles instead of policies that often dehumanise
• Rethinking employee recognition

This is a philosophical conversation that really gets beneath the surface of how we do things at work. I love the thought-provoking examples and metaphors that Theran uses. 

Want to do the right thing for the people around you at work, for the right reasons? Are you clear about what those 'rights' are? 

Hear what we discuss on this episode of the podcast and let us know how you're going about having the conversations that matter in your organisation. Message us to let us know how we can help guide the talk and practice that puts human at the heart of culture.

More about Theran:

Theran is on a mission to build an emotionally intelligent world.

He thinks, writes, and speaks about all the things that impact us as humans both at home and professionally.

In the world of work this means he takes a keen interest not only in company culture but also in company character. He loves to discuss issues involving capitalism, organisational culture, behaviour, values, emotional intelligence, narrative identity and psychology.

In his role as Chief Humanising Officer at mygrow he is interested in pioneering new ways of achieving collective flourishing and group relational health through the powerful vehicles of companies and organisations.

His personal purpose statement in everything he does professionally is to “Realise Humanity.”

Links to contact Theran:

LinkedIn:

Theran Knighton-Fitt

mygrow

Website: www.mygrow.me

Resources & References

Workplace Culture: 14 Steps - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Culture Matters: The Research Agrees - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Theran's Linktree: linktr.ee/therankf

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: 

Martin Drake ripped up the rule book and invited the "dynamic duo" that is Gemma Ellison and myself onto his podcast, Is This Room Free?

We're not HR.

But we are all about people. 

In particular, we're focused on enabling people to be and experience their best self.

And enabling them to develop in a way that provides most value to the organisation. All this whilst creating the most engaging experience that means we feel good about what we do.

So in this conversation, we unpick leadership development at its best, which is what we've created with Leadership Labs.

This is about a process for honesty, collaboration, peer support and experiential learning.

That might now sound mainstream but we push the boundaries.

We empower leaders to design experiments that drive positive change in their businesses.

Are you interested in a different way to develop the skills, confidence and ability to problem solve that is required of leaders today?

Whether you're at the top of an organisation or leading a team of people in a managerial role... Leadership Labs will help you.

Get in touch to find out more and benefit from the summer booking discount for our next Open Lab starting in September.

More about Martin:

Martin Drake is founder of Higher - a recruitment agency specialising in the HR and Marketing professions. Over 20 years recruitment experience, including 6 years as a HR Business Partner, his own experience with recruiters led him back to setting up his own recruitment business to give people the level of service and support they want and expect.

Links to contact Martin:

LinkedIn:

Martin Drake 

Higher

HR and Marketing recruitment: www.higherwithus.com

Is This Room Free? - the HR careers podcast

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Future Ready by Experimentation – with Gemma Ellison - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Leaders Tell Us: A Unique Approach to Development - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

The multi-award-winning, author and very awesome Roy Magara provides a legal perspective on putting the human factor back into business. 

It was great being able to pick up the conversation from those that we had during the pandemic when we facilitated a number of webinars together. 

Why is it that so many legal cases continue to be brought to Roy's attention? He outlines cases where employers have been called out for not caring enough. And the increasing number of cases associated with mental health and the menopause. 

We tackle challenging issues such as employees who claim unfair practice to mask incompetence.

We discuss whether changes in the number of legal cases are due to employee expectations, or changes in the way companies operate. 

And we connect use of language, psychological safety, mental wellbeing, financial wellbeing, and our perception of conflict with employee experience and the law. 

Bottom line: we need to focus on being human. We must seek to reduce the stress and resources associated with getting employee experience right via legal channels. 

How good are you at keeping the fact we're all human, including your managers and leaders, at the forefront of your mind? 

More about Roy:

We statistically spend most of our time thinking about, talking about and in many cases worrying about our work. As an Employment Solicitor Advocate at Magara Law, Roy works hard to help people through the legalities and complexities of their 'every day' and take the "worry" out of your statistics. People are at the heart of Roy’s practice – whether employer or employee – and Roy’s aim is to ensure that whichever side of the relationship you are, your employment rights and obligations are in check.

Links to contact Roy:

LinkedIn:

Roy Magara

Magara Law

Website: magaralaw.co.uk

Resources & References

Employment Tribunal Decisions - Mrs Dumigan v The Mount School Ltd (www.gov.uk)

Quantum: Magara, Roy (Amazon.co.uk)

Law & Wellbeing Webinar by Roy and Lisa: Facing the Real Issues - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Psychological Safety Webinars by Roy and Lisa: WEBINAR: Psychological Safety - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) / Leading Psychological Safety - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Mental Health: Missing the Point - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Being ready for the future of work requires action. Now.

Research clearly identifies that Individual performance has a causal relationship with wellbeing. So it doesn't take a psychologist to tell you that companies need to invest in getting wellbeing right. 

But just what makes the biggest difference?

And where do we begin?

Start simple is my approach. Human connection is the building block of good relationships, mental wellbeing, psychologically safe environments, engagement, and performance. So let's start there.

Rob Stephenson of FormScore very eloquently outlines the case for being more human, and approaches that we can easily adopt to achieve that.

Listen to Rob talk about wellbeing, effectiveness and commitment, and their impact on readiness to perform.

This episode of the podcast will help you on your journey.

It might just help you leave the foothills and start the ascent of Mount Everest (this analogy will make sense when you listen!).

More about Rob:

Rob is a TEDx Speaker, Mental Health Campaigner, Keynote Speaker, Facilitator, CEO of FormScore, and founder of the InsideOut LeaderBoard.

Rob has a strong and personal interest in mental wellbeing and is part of the movement to smash the stigma of mental ill-health in the workplace. He has lived and worked whilst managing bipolar disorder for as long as he can remember. He conducts speaking engagements on his personal experiences and ideas as to how we can facilitate change.

FormScore is a movement and technology solution that helps us be more intentional about our wellbeing by answering the question "How are you today?" with a score out of ten, and connecting with friends, family and trusted colleagues.

The InsideOut LeaderBoard is a social enterprise with a mission of ending the stigma of mental ill-health in the workplace.

Links to contact Rob:

LinkedIn:

Rob Stephenson

FormScore

Website: www.formscore.today

Resources & References

Checking in with your team: Anxiety Conversation Framework Tackling Anxiety Collectively - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Emotional Needs Audit: The Emotional Needs Audit - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Mental Health Onboarding - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Mental Health: Missing the Point - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Mental Health: From Boardrooms to Toolkits – Placi Espejo - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

The Future of Workplace Wellbeing (www.formscore.today)

Harmonizing the Mind: (vimeo.com)

Inside Out Leaderboard (inside-out.org)

This is one of the most frank, honest podcast conversations I've had and I'm so grateful to Gail Cohen of the GCVA for being so open with me about her leadership style.

We explore if she is a good leader (her words!). Gail's honesty and vulnerability is powerful as we unpick:

• How our experience shapes us
• Self awareness vs self evaluation
• Generational differences within the workforce
• Employee led culture 
• Clarity of a leaders' strengths and areas for development
• Leadership, management and being an entrepreneur - crucial differences
• Leading with neurodiversity, and the impact on the team
• Regaining the 'ba boom' when we flatline in our roles
• Relinquishing control and succession planning

The conversation is thought provoking. I wonder what you will take away from it?

More about Gail:

Gail is the Director General of the Gift Card & Voucher Association (GCVA), a role she has held since 2015. During this time, the organisation has grown exponentially; adapting to represent all players, and the industry, in the continually changing gift card environment. It has over 90 members including major retailers and key service providers. 

Gail leads and manages the association, develops strategy, and sets direction with the executive group, hosting the largest annual industry global conference.

Gail is an experienced brand builder and marketing professional with an impressive portfolio working across the private, public, and charitable sectors. Previous clients include Cartier, British Film Institute & Pearson. She is passionate about human rights and loves her family, gardening, cooking and meditating in the middle of a field.

Links to contact Gail:

LinkedIn:

Gail Cohen

GCVA

Website: gcva.co.uk

Twitter: @GCVA_

Resources & References

Transcending Leadership - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Is Fear blocking your leadership? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Leadership by Virtue; are people following? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

RETHINK Being Human at Work – with Gemma Ellison, Macmillan Cancer Support - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

The Chimp Paradox: The Mind Management Programme to Help You Achieve Success, Confidence and Happiness: The Acclaimed Mind Management Programme to Help You Achieve Success, Confidence and Happiness - Professor Steve Peters (Amazon.co.uk)

My podcast got hijacked!!! I loved this... the fabulous David Greenaway and Gemma Ellison did a takeover of Beyond the Water Cooler and put me in the hotseat to celebrate 50 episodes. Actually, to my relief, it was a great discussion involving all three of us, about what has changed in the world of work since my first episode. And importantly we get to grips with some of the challenges companies are grappling with right now, to help them move forward. Did you know... ‼️ 72% of leaders report they often feel used up at the end of the day, an increasing sign of burnout from 60% in 2020?* !! Leaders who trust their senior leaders are 3 times more likely to develop novel ideas or solutions. But, the level of trust in managers and leaders, especially in hybrid workforces, is at crisis point?* !! Psychological safety is still a critical need in many organisations, and when leaders regularly display vulnerability, their employees are 5.3 times more likely to trust them?* Listen to our advice about how to rethink some of the key concerns that are getting in the way of talent attraction and retention, people development, mental wellbeing, employee experience and employee engagement. These are the top concerns for CEOs, so can you afford not to disrupt the status quo? *Source: Global Leadership Forecast 2023 More about Dave As a Life in Business & 3 Principles coach, Dave is deeply committed to helping others discover the innate wisdom and well-being within themselves so they can improve their business and life. Through one-on-one coaching sessions, workshops and talks, he guide people on a journey of self-discovery and business growth, and helps them tap into their own inner resources and realise their full potential. Links to contact Dave: LinkedIn: Dave Greenaway Facebook: LifeInBusinessEvents Twitter: @LifeInBusiness_ TikTok: @lifeinbusiness Website: www.lifeinbusiness.co.uk More about Gemma Gemma is an ex lawyer turned leader in the talent, culture and leadership space. She cares deeply about the experience of people in the workplace, and is an advocate of leading with heart, humanity and compassion. She is currently working on some exciting talent and leadership projects at Macmillan Cancer Support. Links to contact Gemma: LinkedIn: Gemma Ellison Resources & References The Industry Leaders Interview - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Employee Engagement - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) The Business Brunch: Resilience - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Transcending Leadership (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Forbes has put together 101 of the best customer experience quotes. Only 3 of them feature employees, despite the fact customer experience relies on your workforce. 

Simon Sinek says: 

👁️‍🗨️ “Customers will never love a company until the employees love it first.” 

And that's exactly what Graham Hill, from insight6, and I talk about in this episode of the podcast. We refocus the lens, shifting away from simply the customer, to the people within organisations that determine CX.

One thing that has become very clear over recent years is the need to enable employees to have the best experience, for companies to succeed. It's interesting how many of the 101 quotes communicate the same powerful message when the word 'customers' is switched for 'employees'. 

That says a lot... the experience of ALL your stakeholders is a must for leaders to get to grips with. 

🥇 Graham and I consider the evolution from customers first, to putting employees first. 

🥇 We unpick the direct connection and key factors that companies need to be addressing. 

🥇 We discuss the uptake of this shift in thinking, and the impact that Insight 6 data shows. 

“If we consistently exceed the expectations of employees, they will consistently exceed the expectations of our customers.” – Shep Hyken

What does your CX strategy look like?

More about Graham:

Graham has over 20 years of experience in senior roles for a number of FTSE 100 businesses including Vodafone, Digicel and Dixons Carphone, leading teams to deliver a world-class customer experience, both in the UK and internationally.

He is the local Customer Experience Director for insight6, owning and running the Bucks, Beds and Oxfordshire Regional Office.

insight6 are one of the UK’s top Customer Experience firms, supporting over 1,000 clients, from all sectors, across the UK to deliver more revenue through better customer experiences.

Links to contact Graham:

LinkedIn:

Graham Hill

insight6 UK

Email: graham.hill@insight6.com

Website: www.insight6.com

Twitter: @GrahamHillCX

Resources & References

This conversation with Graham reminded me of the episode with Eric Collins who talked about him being a customer of his business in his MD role As MD, I’m Just A Customer Of The Business – with Eric Collins - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

The High Cost of a Bad Employee Experience and How to Avoid It – insight6

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the...

Nick Jemetta, founder of Stories Matter, joins me to discuss anxiety. He is passionate about creating connection, conversation, curiosity and change. And he takes a holistic approach to mental health. 

Stress, anxiety and depression are thought to be responsible for almost half of working days lost in Britain due to health issues. 

According to the Workplace Health Report 2022, 58% of employees are experiencing anxiety, and 34% of those experiencing anxiety are aged 25-34. 

In the current climate of financial stress, ongoing strikes, international conflict and other negative news filling the media channels, it is no surprise that rates of anxiety are reaching new levels. 

Nick and I discuss:

• The need for a different approach to a growing problem
• People at risk of developing anxiety
• Strategies for companies to consider for an organisational response
• The need to rethink expectations of managers

The resource 'Tackling Anxiety Collectively' is a team discussion framework for normalising the conversation. 

✅ Download it and start making a difference for your teams. 

✅ Support your managers in having the discussions that count. 

✅ Let your employees know that you validate them, care, and that you seek to empower people to take control.

Get in touch for help with having such conversations and advice about providing the best support. 

More about Nick:

As Founder of Stories Matter, Nick ‘Fancy Dress Dad’ Jemetta is on mission is to change the narrative - creating empowered cultures for organisations, and (young) people to thrive.

He is a digital product coach and consultant, multi-award-winning mental health campaigner, speaker, trainer, and organisational wellbeing coach.

Nick’s inspirational journey from anxious teenage introvert to business owner (via media stardom and corporate burnout!), is an uplifting, powerful story of hope, positivity, and resilience.

Links to contact Nick:

LinkedIn:

Nick Jemetta

Stories Matter

Facebook: Nicholas Jemetta

Instagram: @nicholasjemetta

Twitter: @nicholasjemetta

Website: www.storiesmatter.io

Resources & References

Managing Anxiety: Individual strategies to bring it under control (10 Minute Audio Blog) - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Tackling Anxiety Collectively - A Team Discussion Framework - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

13 Skills to Build Resilience - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Is Fear blocking your leadership? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Worried about the future virtual world? Check out this...

Placi Espejo is a MH Champion, Coach and Mentor supporting innovative businesses to help them grow. 

She is also a TEDx speaker, having taken to the stage to share her ideas about embracing mental health and the benefits of workplace policies. Placi talks from her own experience of struggles with mental health, and from her role within companies that means she has a wealth of insight into how to make the experience of work better.

Poor mental health is costing UK employers up to £56 billion a year (Deloitte, 2022) and so addressing this has to be everyone's business. 

In this episode, we explore:

• Why we're continuing to have the discussion about leaders taking mental health seriously, despite increased awareness in recent years
• Placi's own story and the lessons learned from that
• Who has responsibility for mental health at work
• How we motivate companies to change their approach
• The mental health / health and safety connection (and future requirements)
• The role of policy, mental health induction and day-to-day practice
• Tools to improve mental health at an individual and organisational level

More about Placi

Placi Espejo is a TEDx Speaker, Mental Health Champion, Coach and Mentor working with innovative businesses to unlock their growth and collaboration potential. She is currently part of the transitioning team for the creation of the new Oxford-Cambridge Partnership leading on the Economy Programme.

From being involved in running the family business since an early age to getting start-ups ready for investment, Placi loves the buzz of making a difference by supporting entrepreneurship. An experienced mentor with Entrepreneur Societies, local Accelerators and Schools, she is also a Deputy Chairman for Oxfordshire Business First and Relationship Manager for Bicester Vision.

Links to contact Placi:

LinkedIn: Placi

Instagram: @placi.mindfulnessjourney

Twitter: @PlaciEspejo

TikTok: @over40placi

Resources & References

Mental Health Onboarding - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Mental Health: Missing the Point - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

(2) Embracing Mental Health - The Benefits of Workplace Policies | Placi Espejo | TEDxBanbury - YouTube

What do we mean by suicide prevention? - YouTube

LinkedIn Post - Placi (Eating Disorders)

LinkedIn Post - Keith Browning (Blown away by this new campaign from Dove)

Mental Health at Work by James Routledge

Self Space: theselfspace.com

Mental Health Foundation - Since 1949,...

How confident are you that every member of your team feels empowered and safe enough to contribute? That they are fully engaged? That their ideas are encouraged to emerge and germinate? That their experience day to day matches how they want to feel? 

In this episode of the podcast, Sonali Kumarakulasinghe, People and Culture Consultant at SK Consulting outlines TWO PRACTICAL APPROACHES that enable people to become more aware of themselves and their colleagues, to engage with meaningful change, and to strengthen team relationships. 

We unpick how LIBERATING STRUCTURES can be used to shape everyday interactions to make organisations more successful by being able to follow ten leadership principles:

1. Include and Unleash Everyone
2. Practice Deep Respect for People and Local Solutions
3. Build Trust As You Go
4. Learn by Failing Forward
5. Practice Self-Discovery Within a Group
6. Amplify Freedom AND Responsibility
7. Emphasize Possibilities: Believe Before You See
8. Invite Creative Destruction To Enable Innovation ⬅️ I LOVE THIS ONE! 
9. Engage In Seriously-Playful Curiosity
10. Never Start Without Clear Purpose

Then we identify the difference that the EMOTIONAL CULTURE DECK makes to companies being clear about how their employees want to feel, how they don't want to feel, and what that means in practice. 

Emotion drives behaviour. If we choose to ignore the dominant driver, we simply become robotic, engaging at a cognitive level. The result = less than optimum performance. 

It's time to unleash and celebrate the level of complexity under the surface that really shapes workplace culture. 

Find out how to transform your practice to gain the most from your amazing people with the resources and practical advice that Sonali shares.

More about Sonali

Sonali is a Consultant, Facilitator and Coach. She works with leaders, teams and individuals to co-create positive organisational cultures and to enable better conversations at work. She is passionate about improving the employee experience at work, where there is mutual trust, care and respect. She partners with client organisations to achieve this.

Links to contact Sonali:

LinkedIn: Sonali K MCIPD

Email: sonali@sk-consult.co.uk

Resources & References

Liberating Structures - menu of 33 Liberating Structures, with open source resources.

Emotional Culture Deck - free downloadable deck, and 10% discount for the physical card deck -For transparency, please note that this is Sonali's affiliate link.

The Liberators - Liberating Structures workshops and resources.

Wise Crowds Design Call - Take your case to the Liberating Structures Wise Crowds design call and be a client and consultant.

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: 

John Hibbs, Co-Founder of CoEfficient, joins me to explore organisational performance from the human perspective.

We discuss:

🗣️ the Monergy Flow that links purpose with people, strategy, implementation and outcomes

🗣️ common factors in successful companies

🗣️ the disconnect between leadership perceptions and those of the wider workforce

🗣️ organisational measures and mental health; the vital link

🗣️ employee surveys: their limitations

🗣️ data - the devil is in the detail (and what we choose to do with it)

More about John

John is CoFounder of CoEfficient. He is a serial entrepreneur and leader, who believes that businesses should be a force for good in the world, and takes joy in creating a win-win world.

Links to contact John:

LinkedIn:

John Hibbs Coefficient

Coefficient Solutions

Website: coefficient-solutions.com

Resources & References

Thriving at Work: a review of mental health and employers - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

13 Ways to Kill Your Community 2nd Edition: Amazon.co.uk: Griffiths, Doug, Clemmer, Kelly, MacNeill, Paul: 9781460297582: Books

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

I was recently invited to guest on Get Radio‘s The Business Brunch with Ben Thompson & Mike Foster. Each week, business leaders from across Oxfordshire join them for interviews and a round table discussion sharing their expertise, knowledge and experience.

During the show, I had the opportunity to talk about my business, It’s Time for Change, and the topic of resilience for business owners, whilst giving really practical advice to business owners listening.

We were joined by the fantastic Dave Greenaway of Life in Business, who was recently a guest on my podcast discussing resilience. You can listen to that episode HERE. 

Do business owners have to be resilient?

Do you agree with what I had to say?

Links for Get Radio Business Brunch:

LinkedIn:

Ben Thompson

Mike Foster

Get Radio

Website: www.getradio.co.uk/on-air/business-brunch

Facbook: Get Radio

Twitter: @getradiouk

Instagram: @getradiouk

Resources & References

13 Skills to Build Resilience - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Personal Resilience Indicator, created by Mind Matters Personal Resilience | Change Tempo

Watch the video here: The Business Brunch with Ben and Mike - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

Man up.

Does that phrase make you squirm or is it acceptable to you? 

We've all been brought up with a set of beliefs and thoughts about how we should behave. But that puts pressure on people to show up in a certain way. It may no longer be considered acceptable or helpful. And it may mean we're covering up what's really going on.

So, what about permission to be authentic? 

My guest, Daniel Glyde, Life Coach & Founder of Positive Masculinity, explores a different approach to mental health. We talk frankly about:

• high performance and mental fitness
• camaraderie instead of safe spaces
• emotional intelligence and soft skills
• vulnerability and mindset

Failing to meet the underlying needs for good mental health to be possible reinforces the disconnect between 'my' reality and the support that's available. 

We cannot support people to improve their mental health if they don't feel it's relevant and understand the connection with their experience. 

Listen to or watch this episode of the podcast for practical advice about improving your own mental wellbeing, mental health, mental fitness or what ever YOU want to call it, and that of your team. 

It's time to rip off the badges of honour men can wear when attributing stress and anxiety to being male.

Success is about authenticity, vulnerability, role modelling and giving permission for others to engage in conversations that are critical. Otherwise we continue to do 'good' mental health a dis-service. 

More about Daniel:

Daniel Glyde is a transformational life coach and founder of Positive Masculinity. He coaches men who feel stuck and want to change by providing a supportive and empowering environment for them to explore their self-worth, navigate relationship challenges, clarify their goals, overcome obstacles, and ultimately, cultivate confidence, connection, empowerment, purpose, and clarity in their lives.

Links to contact Daniel:

LinkedIn:

Daniel Glyde

Positive Masculinity

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Resources | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Tackling Anxiety Collectively - A Team Discussion Framework | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Mental Health: Missing the Point | It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Emotional Intelligence; Empathy vs Sympathy: Brené Brown on Empathy vs Sympathy (youtube.com)

Let Men Drive The Mental Health Bus – Nick O’Neill - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Removing the Cape: Listening. Supporting....

Gemma Ellison, Senior Leadership & Talent Manager at Macmillan Cancer Support, joins me in a productive 'rant' about some key issues in business, and most importantly, how to rethink them. I love the energy, inspiration and wisdom that comes from Gemma. She really knows her stuff. We get to grips with... 🗣️ The deliberate leader - an important distinction to a step up the career ladder 🗣️ Challenging common beliefs; is treating others how we want to be treated good enough? 🗣️ The bias towards short term metrics and how they drive the wrong behaviours 🗣️ Work-kind - including becoming an activist (thank you Magnus Wood) 🗣️ Knowing the right time to walk away from leadership responsibility 🗣️ The concept of 'being strong' 🗣️ What we really mean when we talk about changing company culture 🗣️ The power of neurodiversity in teams 🗣️ The value of platforms such as YourFLOCK to support leaders (you'll love this conversation, Dan Sodergren and Michal Wisniewski!) If everyone had a little more 'sensitivity for the human condition' (brilliant quote, Gemma), the world of work would be a different place. How are you and your company disrupting the status quo and pushing the 'being human' agenda? More about Gemma Gemma is an ex lawyer turned leader in the talent, culture and leadership space. She cares deeply about the experience of people in the workplace, and is an advocate of leading with heart, humanity and compassion. She is currently working on some exciting talent and leadership projects at Macmillan Cancer Support. Links to contact Gemma: LinkedIn: Gemma Ellison Resources & References Consider yourself a good leader? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Is Fear blocking your leadership? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) People First for Business Success - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Ingredients for Leaders - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Transcending Leadership - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) Psychological Safety - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk) How to Start a #WorkKind Revolution - A Guide (thekindnesscorporation.com) State of Kind Business Report | The Kindness Corporation

March is B Corp month and so who better to join me than Chris Williams, Sustainability Champion and Commercial Manager at Jennings, where they have just been awarded the badge?!

In this conversation, Chris helps us to understand:

• What B Corp is actually about
• What prompted Jennings to pursue the B Corp route
• What a values-based culture looks like
• What the B Corp certification process involves
• The benefits of the B Corp accreditation
• How to inspire companies to do business better, regardless of B Corp
• How to get started and resources that help 

More about Chris

Chris is officially a Commercial Manager at Jennings but he has morphed the role into a Sustainability Champion & Eco Ambassador for the company. Chris is keen to influence, inspire & encourage other organisations in our community to do business better.

Links to contact Chris:

LinkedIn:

Chris Williams

Jennings of Garsington Ltd

Website: jennings.co.uk

Facbook: JenningsOfGarsington

Instagram: @jenningsofgarsington

Twitter: @jennings_

Resources & References

B Corp UK (BIA) (bcorporation.uk)

About B Lab UK (bcorporation.uk)

B Local Oxfordshire

Tammy Marrett - Green Savvy

Oxfordshire Greentech (oxfordshiregreentech.co.uk)

Siobhann Mansel - Make it Good

Mark Cuddigan & Ella's Kitchen: The Good Stuff We Do (www.ellaskitchen.co.uk)

Good Stuff (jennings.co.uk)

ESG: Be the change – there’s no PLANet B – with Nicola Weir, Deloitte - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Workplace Culture: 14 Steps - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

VALUABLE: How a Values-Enabled Culture can Inspire You to Sustain Profit, by Mike Jennings (Amazon.co.uk)

Ethical Reading

Monument Community Trust (mct-oxfordshire.org)

Please contact Chris directly to request access to their B Corp specific Dropbox folder full of other useful resources to support you on your B Corp journey: chris@jennings.co.uk

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : 

Carla Maroussas joins me today to explore overwhelm, and the all-important question - how do we reduce it?

In a world where overwhelm feels normal, where many of us feel trapped with the only option being to push through, this is an important conversation. 

We explore:

• the feeling of overwhelm that produces a real desire of wanting to retreat into a bubble
• the pressure on leaders and managers to be seen to cope
• the need to align our lived experience with our values
• how emotional support from managers, in the form of quality conversations, improves mental wellbeing
• what active listening really means
• our thoughts about goals!

This episode is full of practical strategies to create more space and reduce overwhelm.

How are you moving closer towards the experience that feels good for you on a daily basis?

How are you supporting your team to reduce emotional arousal so that they can invest their mental energy on being productive?

More about Carla

Before studying and qualifying to become a Life Coach and NLP Practitioner Carla spent most of her professional career in Film, Television and Music. Working hard to make her way up from an Account Manager to a place on the board as a Managing Director. 

Carla has been described as a senior management professional with over 25 years experience gained in the music, tv and film industries. A natural leader with an in depth knowledge of sales and leadership”

However she now utilises her career experience in senior management, sales and leadership and runs her own Coaching Consultancy working with clients on a 121 level via self discovery to work out their next best step.

She helps those she works with to re-connect to their values and core beliefs and with an attitude of gratitude and positivity work out their next best steps and to move forward with calm and clarity.

Whether in your personal or work life if you are thinking about, working out or taking the next step, she will work alongside you to reduce overwhelm and confusion, to increase self care and provide a clear pathway forward.

Recent 121 clients have included small businesses owners, board members and working parents with bespoke coaching based around career and personal development and the associated themes of managing work life balance, overwhelm and self care.

In addition 121 coaching for leaders and their teams offering recent programmes on identifying company values, the link between staff productivity and happiness, talent identification and new leader personal development.

Carla provides coaching and mentoring services both on-line and in person locally and works offers 121, team and group coaching.

Links to contact Carla:

LinkedIn: Carla Maroussas

Instagram: @carlamaroussas

Twitter: @carlamaroussas

Website: www.carlamaroussascoaching.com

Resources & References

The Business Brunch: Resilience (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

13 Skills to Build Resilience - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

As we celebrate International Women's Day, I'm delighted to be joined by Dr Shawn Andrews, author of The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence and the Gender Divide.

I came across her book a few years ago and it was gripping - loads of jaw-dropping data, relatable case-studies and practical advice about women in leadership roles. She has so much to say that we split the conversation into two parts! 

In the first episode, Shawn explains the 5 main barriers for women in business which are nothing to do with their skills or competencies and everything to do with perceptions of women. We've seen this all to clearly recently with Jacinda Ardern. 

We then turn our focus to the 7 superpowers that women bring to companies and these take us into the second episode where we also explore questions such as 'why are some women more successful than others?'.

Shawn outlines examples and practical ways to develop these attributes if they are not your strengths (that goes for men too). And she outlines the benefits to men, both personally and professionally, of supporting women to climb the career ladder. 

Enjoy!

More about Shawn

Dr. Shawn Andrews is a keynote speaker, organizational consultant, and author of the best-selling book, The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide.

She’s been a Forbes contributor, quoted in the Chicago Tribune, and interviewed on dozens of podcast and radio shows, including NPR.

She serves as a professor at both UC Irvine and Pepperdine University business schools, teaching courses on Women and Leadership and Organizational Behavior. She is founder and CEO of Andrews Research International.

Links to contact Shawn:

LinkedIn: Dr Shawn Andrews

Facebook: Dr Shawn Andrews Page

Instagram: @drshawnandrews

Website: www.drshawnandrews.com

Email: hello@drshawnandrews.com

Resources & References

7 Superpowers of Women (part 1) | LinkedIn

Book: The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide - Shawn Andrews Ed.D. M.B.A

Amazon.com

Amazon.co.uk

7 Superpowers of Men (part 2) | LinkedIn

Women in the Workplace | McKinsey

Angela Lee Duckworth: Grit: The power of passion and perseverance

As we celebrate International Women's Day, I'm delighted to be joined by Dr Shawn Andrews, author of The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence and the Gender Divide.

I came across her book a few years ago and it was gripping - loads of jaw-dropping data, relatable case-studies and practical advice about women in leadership roles. She has so much to say that we split the conversation into two parts! 

In the first episode, Shawn explains the 5 main barriers for women in business which are nothing to do with their skills or competencies and everything to do with perceptions of women. We've seen this all to clearly recently with Jacinda Ardern. 

We then turn our focus to the 7 superpowers that women bring to companies and these take us into the second episode where we also explore questions such as 'why are some women more successful than others?'.

Shawn outlines examples and practical ways to develop these attributes if they are not your strengths (that goes for men too). And she outlines the benefits to men, both personally and professionally, of supporting women to climb the career ladder. 

Enjoy!

More about Shawn

Dr. Shawn Andrews is a keynote speaker, organizational consultant, and author of the best-selling book, The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide.

She’s been a Forbes contributor, quoted in the Chicago Tribune, and interviewed on dozens of podcast and radio shows, including NPR.

She serves as a professor at both UC Irvine and Pepperdine University business schools, teaching courses on Women and Leadership and Organizational Behavior. She is founder and CEO of Andrews Research International.

Links to contact Shawn:

LinkedIn: Dr Shawn Andrews

Facebook: Dr Shawn Andrews Page

Instagram: @drshawnandrews

Website: www.drshawnandrews.com

Email: hello@drshawnandrews.com

Resources & References

7 Superpowers of Women (part 1) | LinkedIn

Book: The Power of Perception: Leadership, Emotional Intelligence, and the Gender Divide - Shawn Andrews Ed.D. M.B.A

Amazon.com

Amazon.co.uk

7 Superpowers of Men (part 2) | LinkedIn

Women in the Workplace | McKinsey

Angela Lee Duckworth: Grit: The power of passion and perseverance

I know this guest really well, having worked with her over a number of years. Amanda Page of Change Tempo is a coach specialising in leading change. 

We have supported a number of clients, from the NHS to recruiters, combining our expertise to lead change. Whether that's about navigating the unknown, anxiety about how to change people's behaviour, or overcoming push-back, Amanda and I have guided leaders through the turbulence.

In this episode we discuss a number of issues and strategies that leaders need to be aware of, including:

• The cost of ignoring the people factor in the process of change 
• The need to anticipate resistance and the confidence to overcome that
• The role of resilience and the impact of change on performance and mental wellbeing
• Change management vs change leadership
• The Change Cycle
• The value of story telling

How much time are you investing in getting the experience of change right for your people?

Get people right, get business right.

Chat to us. We can support you to change the narrative from upset and commotion, to exciting opportunity and positive investment. 

More about Amanda

Transforming your organisation can be career defining for leaders, so it's important to get it right. As a change expert and coach, Amanda works with leaders to help them accelerate change & following a long career in the global tech industry in Org Change, Learning and Development and Customer Loyalty, she has a deep understanding of the key levers required to successfully lead people through change resulting in ongoing career advancement for themselves and their team.

Links to contact Amanda:

LinkedIn: Amanda Page Change Tempo

Website: www.changetempo.com

Resources & References

13 Skills to Build Resilience - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

6 Trade secrets that will transform how you lead change (changetempo.com)

Research:

EY research reveals that 47% of key employees leave after a major transaction. Within three years, that number has grown to 75%. This represents a painful loss of valuable human capital, and it can come with devastating impact:  How a new talent mindset can solve the post-merger integration puzzle (www.ey.com)

Swedish House of Finance, together with Nova School of Business and Economics take a deep dive into Swedish employee-employer level data linked to individual health records to find incidence of stress, anxiety, depression, psychiatric medication usage. (Data covered all merger transactions in the Swedish economy between 2007 and 2015. Latest draft April 2022, first draft Dec 2020): How do mergers and acquisitions impact employee mental health (www.hhs.se)

• The study found that M&A negatively impact workers’ mental health including stress and anxiety, depression diagnoses, both inpatient and outpatient care, medication prescription.
• Overall mental health issues increased 2.6% among employees after an M&A compared to the pre-merger period.
• Both employee

Having the "capacity to remain flexible in our thoughts, feelings, and behaviours when faced by life disruption, or extended periods of pressure" (Pemberton) is essential for resilience.

It's fair to say that many of us still expect to come out the other side feeling like we've survived a storm. 

Yet, when we get resilience right, we should emerge feeling "stronger, wiser and more able."

How do we do that? 

In this episode of the Beyond the Water Cooler podcast, Dave Greenaway and I discuss how to lean into adversity and to build our resilience as we go.

It is more than bouncing back. Resilience may take you on a different path to the one you were on previously. Or you might continue along the same route wearing different clothes as you learn from your experience.

Are you in control?

Listen to the advice we share and check out my blog about strategies to develop greater resilience.

Can you afford not to?

More about Dave

As a Life in Business & 3 Principles coach, Dave is deeply committed to helping others discover the innate wisdom and well-being within themselves so they can improve their business and life.

Through one-on-one coaching sessions, workshops and talks, he guide people on a journey of self-discovery and business growth, and helps them tap into their own inner resources and realise their full potential.

Links to contact Dave:

LinkedIn: Dave Greenaway

Facebook: LifeInBusinessEvents

Twitter: @LifeInBusiness_

TikTok: @lifeinbusiness

Website: www.lifeinbusiness.co.uk

Resources & References

13 Skills to Build Resilience (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Resilience in a new world - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Sabotaging your resilience and wellbeing? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up to be kept in the loop: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

Mel Francis is an accomplished HR Director and she joins me to talk about Neurodiversity in the workplace.

Mel supports HR, and Diversity and Inclusion professionals, on their journey through her company, NeuroinclusiveHR.

We explore:

• What neurodiversity really is
• Different types of neurodiverse conditions and their common traits that may be evident at work
• Bias, stigma, stereotypes and the use of language
• The power of ingroups and outgroups, 
• The impact of culture and psychological safety
• The value of people uniqueness and the cost of fuelling ignorance
• The correlation between neurodiversity and mental health challenges
• The responsibility of employers

Mel provides practical steps to achieving a neurodiverse company. Whether you're starting out or looking to apply a neurodiverse lens to all stages of the employee lifecycle, she has clear advice about what to do.

More about Mel

Mel is an accomplished HR Director with over 25 years’ experience gained within complex matrix organisations in the public, private, and not for profit sectors.

Links to contact Mel:

LinkedIn: Melanie Francis

Website: www.neuroinclusivehr.com

Resources & References

Understanding the spectrum

Neurodiversity at Work – Professor Amanda Kirby and Theo Smith

Rebel Ideas – The power of thinking differently - Matthew Syed

Do-IT Profiler – Neurodiversity screening and tools

ONS Report - Outcomes for disabled people in the UK: 2020

ILM – Workplace neurodiversity – The Power of Difference

Employment Law Journal article (PDF Download)

Everymind at work - Neurodiversity resources

Board Diversity...

ESG is just about the physical world, right? Wrong. There is so much packed into this term that every business needs to consider what it means for them. Whether we're talking about values, opportunities in the workplace or recruitment, ESG needs to be a central driver if we are serious about investing in our future. We all need to be part of the change now, talking less, doing more. 

Who better to join me to explain the benefits and how to approach ESG than Nicola Weir, Internal Sustainability and Climate Leader, and ESG Lead, for Deloitte Asia Pacific. 

Nicola explains the connection between ESG, employee engagement, mental wellbeing, performance and other key measures that companies are grappling with. She also explores the increasing reality that investors are looking for good ESG credentials, and the impact that is having on companies rethinking the needs of employees. 

We discuss:

🌍 The increasing volume of employee voices connecting ESG and employee experience

🌍 How to go about interpreting the standards and practices associated with each of the 3 disciplines within ESG

🌍 How companies can join the dots between employee experience, business strategy and their ESG initiative

🌍 Where to start so that the ESG agenda feels less overwhelming for SMEs

🌍 How organisations communicate their ESG efforts so that they are meaningful to current and prospective employees (complimenting what Sophie and Alice of The Joyful discuss in their episode of the podcast about marketing)

🌍 Key actions business leaders should be implementing now to make a real difference to employee engagement

Shaping a responsible business that treats people well requires a shift in behaviour. Nicola is clear about the fact it's a journey, and the need to take small steps so that the process avoids feeling scary. However small your business, there are conversations you can have and bite-sized changes that you can make to become more sustainable, purposeful and rewarding for your employees (and the planet). 

Nicola poses a great question, and one that I will leave you with...

"What would our children do?"

More about Nicola

Nicola is Deloitte Asia Pacific's Internal Climate and Sustainability leader and ESG Partner within Deloitte South Korea. Prior to this Nicola was head for Deloitte Europe's internal sustainability strategy, WorldClimate. She has 20 years experience in business transformation, with specialism in ESG. She has worked in UK, Indonesia, Nepal, Tanzania, Mozambique and now Korea.

She is a mentor to young women and an advisor for start ups - in Nepal she helped establish a business accelerator- Nepal Communitere. In addition she was the founder of consultancy company Thagaconnect who connected experts with NGOs to provide ESG and training services. Nicola was also a Director for Myinloco Ltd community app.

Links to contact Nicola:

LinkedIn: Nicola Weir

Email:

The fabulous David Saab, Mental Wellbeing Champion and Business Alliance Manager for the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce, joins me to kickstart my new series of the podcast for 2023.

In his role at the Chamber, David has a unique perspective into what's going on within companies across the Thames Valley. His observations about what's working and what isn't, David's insight into interpreting that, and his advice about what businesses should focus on during the year ahead, makes this episode a must-listen.

Our conversation includes:

• The omission of employee feedback in business planning for 2023, why that is and what companies should be doing differently
• Unpicking some of the challenges that organisations have been struggling with over the last year and how to re-think them to move forward with greater success
• Ticking boxes, including an insightful perspective on the impact of Mental Health First Aiders
• Reasons why many companies continue to neglect or undermine the critical role of meaningful relationships
• Work-arounds for managers who struggle to engage with the individual conversations within their team
• The power of case-studies for moving forward, based on the resource 'Building a Positive Mental Wellbeing Culture'
• Must-dos for leaders to build into their business plan for the year ahead to shift course from "pebble dashing" and "papering over the cracks" (brilliant terms from David to sum up the reality for many companies)

David talks from his heart and with much wisdom. The key messages about what leaders should be focusing on are not rocket science. This conversation strips back the levels of complexity that many companies have found themselves grappling with to improve employee experience, and looks at the simple things that make the biggest difference. 

More about David

David's four distinct chapters of his working life include; his youthful chapter spanning various roles and organisations in the UK and Canada, e.g Cable Harness Engineer for a subcontractor building gun turrets for the Greek military. All of which he absorbed and loved.

The second chapter saw David progress from Telesales to Country Manager launching Consumer Electronics and IT Accessory Brands into IT Distribution and Retail Channels.

David then trained for three years as a Psychotherapist and found his passion for being with Clients.

For the past four years David has worked at the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce as Business Alliance Manager and heads up their mental health.

Links to contact David:

LinkedIn:

David Saab

Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce

Website: www.thamesvalleychamber.co.uk

Email: davidsaab@tvchamber.co.uk

Resources & References

7 simple questions that will really make a difference to your business After Action Review - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Leading...

Nick O'Neill of Oriel Chambers outlines a modern approach for mental health in a traditional industry that is the legal sector.

He explains that law is known for being a male dominated culture, attracting alpha characters. And that presents a challenge for addressing a very human need, particularly when you consider that many men of the generation that struggle to engage with mental health, are managers. Their perceptions and behaviours have a far-reaching impact.

Add to that Nick's view that most lawyers hate being told what to do and the challenge of billable hours, and you will understand that this is a complex issue.

Nick outlines how the Bar is addressing the layers of cultural complexity to break down barriers.

He shares advice about the need to keep women out - a controversial but informed perspective. 

He explains the need to get more people on the bus by creating a commercial case.

And Nick describes the impact of the Merseyside Men's Legal Wellbeing Group, discussing topics such as professional happiness, imposter syndrome and professional goals.

We both detest tick boxes. This is about real life.

Don't let Mental Health Awareness Week in May, Global Wellness Day tomorrow, and International Men's Health Week next week become token gestures. Instead, do something that impacts long term by creating engagement and momentum. 

Once you've listened to this podcast, check out what Stuart Codling had to say about the same topic in the police.

These guys have found ways to make a real difference. 

How are YOU going about that?

More about Nick:

After a successful career as a litigation solicitor/partner at KLS Law, Nick O'Neill recognised his real passion for people / operational management. Following the completion of his MBA at Nottingham Trent University, Nick moved into full time legal practice management in 2010. Nick has managed at 3 private sector law firms and spent 5 years as the Legal Governance and Practice Manager at Wirral Borough Council. In January 2021, Nick moved to take up the role of Chambers Director at Oriel Chambers in Liverpool. Nick struggled with his own mental health as a young solicitor and after a period of self-development and study, became a Lawcare support worker in 2010. Nick is a Lawcare Champion and regularly speaks on the legal circuit on behalf of Lawcare, communicating the services that this amazing charity provides. Nick is a qualified ILM Level 5 mental health / career coach and regularly coaches young lawyers to assist them with their career goals. In 2024 Nick became the Chair of the Merseyside Legal Men’s Wellbeing Group.

Links to contact Nick:

LinkedIn:

Nick O'Neill

Oriel Chambers

Resources & References

Watch this episode on YouTube

Make a real difference to your mental health by exploring topics that significantly impact at Leadership & Manager Labs (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

In this final episode of the series, Lisa highlights some of the key principles for successful growth in life and business. She discusses the relevance of getting employee experience right at a time when so many employees are feeling emotionally drained and therefore simply don't have the capacity to perform well. 

Lisa identifies key themes that have arisen from conversations with the guests and the over-arching messages about going back to basics regarding human relationships, and creating space. 

Which points inspire you to check out my guests' episodes?

And how are you going to build some of this advice into your experience, to shape a year ahead where you have greater capacity to succeed?

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up for Lisa's Monthly Bulletin: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk/jointheclub

Email: lisa@itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sarah Page, People Operations Lead at OOMPH has a diverse experience from working in public, private, start-up and corporate companies. She has learnt what works and what doesn't, to create a role in this new, award-winning business.

We discuss... 

• How Sarah has intentionally shaped a role that focuses on people over process.
• What are the key elements that have made the role, and her employer, so successful
• The impact of different approaches
• Revealing blind spots that lead to action
• Open mindset and a disruptive approach to working
• Culture add vs fit for culture; the power of diversity
• The hugely influential value from working within a non-profit organisation 

Sarah is incredibly humble but the reality is she has so much wisdom that others can really benefit from. She makes it all sound so easy but when we are driven by our values and adopt a human approach to work, it really isn't that hard.

Listen to the podcast and then reach out to continue the conversation. You can tell from hearing us... we're easy to talk to! 

More about Sarah

Sarah is passionately sustainable, a little bit nerdy about tech (and excel) and a lover of people, so it’s no surprise she finds herself working in the EV sector for one of the coolest companies in Cambridge - OOMPH EV Charging, 'a Female founded clean-tech start-up that is developing the technology to deliver an EV charge top up, when and where you need it. Helping to remove the barriers to EV ownership by putting the consumer first.'

Her focus at Oomph is both to talent spot and help foster a culture that supports diversity, inclusion and belonging. To build an environment that focuses on people and their experience, making work more efficient, fulfilling, rewarding and enjoyable for all.

Links to contact Sarah:

LinkedIn:

Sarah Page

OOMPH

Instagram: @oomphevcharging

Twitter: @oomphEV

Website: www.oomphev.com

Resources & References

RUN BRITANNIA: What I learned - Rachel Sparkhall (LinkedIn)

Consider yourself a good leader? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Engagement surveys...worth it? - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Don’t be the brand who cried purpose – Sophie Turton & Alice Reeves, The Joyful - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Should I Stay or Should I Go? – with Emma Browning - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : www.linkedin.com/in/lisapsychology

Website: www.itstimeforchange.co.uk

Sign up for Lisa's Monthly Bulletin: 

"The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." George Bernard Shaw

I’m delighted to be joined by two communication experts, Sophie Turton and Alice Reeves, Directors and Founders of The Joyful. They break down myths, challenge assumptions, get "ranty" about boxes, and really shine a new light on marketing. 

I loved this conversation! It was a lot of fun at the same time as communicating how we need to think about branding differently. 

From company culture, unpicking purpose and authentic leadership, to ESG and net positive impact, Sophie and Alice have a lot to say! And their energy is palpable! 

They share ideas about how to shape business to be joyful, meaning that people love being part of it and spread the right messages about your brand. It's about getting beyond the glossy marketing to make your company look a certain way, and instead shouting about what it's really like. You can spot the necessary link with getting the culture right!

We talk conscious responsibility, collective purpose, feedback loops and how simple things are good! And so much more.

Honestly, I can't think of two people I'd rather have a good, frank conversation with about how we do things. That's why we're finding opportunities to join forces... imagine the difference when you can join all the dots around communication, company culture and mental wellbeing, that underpins everything your company is about.

Put the joy back into your organisation. Get the people right to get your business right.

More about Sophie & Alice

Sophie Turton and Alice Reeves are directors and co-founders of The Joyful, a brand impact and communications consultancy for purpose-driven businesses. They are passionate about using the power of business as a force for good, and work with organisations of all sizes to create joy through every interaction.

They are both mental health advocates and speak openly about their experiences with mental illness and neurodiversity and are on a personal mission to make business more human.

Links to contact Sophie & Alice:

LinkedIn:

Sophie Turton

Alice Reeves

The Joyful

Facebook: wearethejoyful

Instagram: @wearethejoyful

Twitter: @wearethejoyful

Website: wearethejoyful.com

Resources & References

Authentic Leadership: Transcending Leadership - It's Time for Change (itstimeforchange.co.uk)

2021 ESG report: Sustainable and inclusive growth | McKinsey & Company

Social Responsibility | McKinsey & Company

Download: The Joyful Impact Wheel

Contact details for Lisa LLoyd:

LinkedIn : 

This is a first! I have two fantastic guests joining me today - Danni Rush, COO, and Lauren Sweeney, Head of People at Virgin Incentives. 

We met at the Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Business Awards in June where they won Employer of the Year! They are scooping up an increasing number of nominations and awards, including most Inspirational Place to Work, recognition as the #1 Emerging Company to Watch in the US by CIO Bulletin, and Business Leader of the Year in the Thames Valley Business and Community Awards for Danni! 

We unpick what is behind Virgin Incentive's success that is all about creating an extraordinary experience for their employees. Danni and Lauren outline what is most important, including their #bettertogether and #embracechange values that has put a real emphasis on connection and collaboration.

We explore the role of both intrinsic motivation and tangible rewards within a purposeful organisation, and personalisation to avoid the one-approach-fits-all, tick-box response to employee recognition. That also includes recognition that their company is not for everyone. The clarity about their culture, confidence in their purpose and values, and transparency in their communication, means that their employees are onboard and enjoy a rewarding experience. 

Lauren and Danni describe the culture at Virgin Incentives that is driven by innovation, enabled by the trust and honest communication that they have worked hard to develop. The conversation is an honest reflection on leadership and employee experience hygiene factors.

They identify what they can do better and some of the challenges that lay ahead, as the business continues to grow. 

With these two people leading the way, Virgin Incentives will continue to stand out for all the right reasons.

Just goes to show that putting people first counts. 

More about Danni

Danni Rush is Chief Operating Officer for Virgin Incentives, Virgin Experience Days and Virgin Experience Gifts. Danni’s career has spanned several industries including travel, retail and outdoor education. Her passion for team engagement, having seen the positive impact that a highly engaged and motivated team can have on business performance. Danni leads the customer experience, product development, partnerships and the people strategy and helped the business navigate through the challenging pandemic period to increase employee engagement ratings and win gold at the 2021 UK Employee Experience Awards.

More about Lauren

Lauren Sweeney is Head of People of at Virgin Incentives, Virgin Experience Gifts and Virgin Experience Days. Passionate about true engagement in the workplace and business growth through a first class people experience.

Links to contact Danni & Lauren:

LinkedIn:

Virgin Incentives

Danni Rush

Lauren Sweeney

Facebook: Virgin Experience Days

Instagram: @Virginexperiencedays

Twitter:...