Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 328: Creating Space for Better Work with KeyAnna Schmiedl | 06 nov. 2026 | 00:37:57 | |
Do you want to redesign work around people, purpose, and better outcomes? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, recorded live at the Unleash conference in Paris, Aoife spoke to the incredible KeyAnna Schmiedl of Workhuman. Together, they explore the future of work, artificial intelligence, leadership, and what it really takes to make work better. Rather than starting with the latest AI tool, they focus on identifying the problems people experience at work and finding the right technology to support meaningful solutions. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: AI at Work, Capabilities, Workplace Contribution Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with KeyAnna Schmiedl | Chief Human Experience Officer at Workhuman: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 251: How I Use AI in my Business and Personal Life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 312: Maximsing AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds Episode 321: Redesigning Work in The Age of AI About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 327: Can I trust you? How to Build Trust at Work | 30 oct. 2026 | 00:17:28 | |
How do you build trust at work, and what behaviours might be quietly eroding it? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores the foundations of trust in the workplace and why trust between individuals deserves more attention. She distinguishes trust from psychological safety and examines how people’s different starting points, experiences, and expectations shape the way they decide whether someone is trustworthy. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Capabilities, Personal Development, Relationships at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 279: Trust & High Performance at Work Episode 218: How Can You Improve Happiness & Trust at Work with Matt Phelan About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| BONUS: Be Genuinely Curious | 26 oct. 2026 | 00:12:54 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife shares her key takeaways from her conversation with Jeff Wetzler about genuine curiosity and psychological safety at work. It works as a refresher if you've heard the full episode, and as a nudge to put the ideas into practice. In this episode, you’ll discover:
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Jeff Wetzler | Author and Human Potential & Learning Expert: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 316: Mastering Your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham Episode 296: Learning in The Age of AI with Damon Lembi About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 326: How Curiosity and Psychological Safety Build Wisdom with Jeff Wetzler | 23 oct. 2026 | 00:41:49 | |
How can leaders create enough psychological safety for people to share what they really think? In the latest episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Jeff Wetzler, author of ‘Ask: Tap into the Hidden Wisdom of People Around You’, explains how curiosity, thoughtful questions, and active listening can help leaders access the collective intelligence within their teams and organisations. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Building Trust at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Jeff Wetzler | Author and Human Potential & Learning Expert: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 316: Mastering Your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham Episode 296: Learning in The Age of AI with Damon Lembi About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 325: Are Your People Doing Their Best? | 16 oct. 2026 | 00:13:22 | |
Are you sure someone is underperforming, or are you missing what’s preventing them from doing their best? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores the assumption that people are doing their best and what it changes for leaders. Rather than quickly labelling someone as lazy, difficult, unmotivated, or incapable, she encourages you to look more closely at capability, role fit, expectations, resources, psychological safety, workload, and your own contribution to the situation. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Personal Development, Psychological Safety, Capabilities at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture Episode 295: From Individual Strengths to Team Capability Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 315: Imposter Syndrome: Why Confidence ≠ Capability About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus: Rethinking What Causes Burnout | 12 oct. 2026 | 00:11:18 | |
In this bonus episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien shares her key takeaways from her insightful conversation with Kate Donovan on burnout. Drawing on Kate's upcoming book Mismatch, Aoife unpacks the idea that burnout isn't about needing a perfect fit at work, most of us just need a "good enough" match most of the time. When that match breaks down across areas like workload, autonomy, fairness, community, values, and reward, burnout can creep in. Here are some of the key takeaways:
Most of the time we need roughly a 75% match between our needs and our environment — not a total match — for things to feel like they're working.
Workload, autonomy, fairness, community, values, and reward.
A helpful reframe for identifying when normal stress has tipped into something more serious.
Some workplaces really are toxic, but many difficult experiences are better understood as a mismatch — a distinction that can be empowering rather than blaming.
People who've experienced this kind of neglect may struggle to notice basic physiological needs (hunger, thirst, needing the bathroom, tiredness) — a warning sign that can also mask the approach of burnout. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Cait Donovan | Author, Culture & Leadership Keynote Speaker & Advisor: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 241: Exploring The Phases of Burnout with Aoife O’Brien Episode 294: The Realities of Leadership Mental Health with Melissa Doman About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 324: The Hidden Mismatches Driving Burnout with Cait Donovan | 09 oct. 2026 | 00:49:09 | |
How can you recognise burnout, understand its root causes, and create a better match between people and the workplace? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien speaks with Cait Donovan, author of the upcoming book ‘Mismatch: Why Good People Burn Out in Good Organisations’, about the difference between chronic stress and burnout, the role of workplace mismatches, and why burnout is blameless. Cait explains that burnout is defined by a lack of recoverability, with recovery taking 12 to 18 months on average. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Workplace Culture, Mental Health, Chronic Stress at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Cait Donovan | Author, Culture & Leadership Keynote Speaker & Advisor: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 241: Exploring The Phases of Burnout with Aoife O’Brien Episode 294: The Realities of Leadership Mental Health with Melissa Doman About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 323: Uncovering your True Capabilities | 02 oct. 2026 | 00:13:41 | |
How do you know what your team is truly capable of? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores why current performance, job titles, CVs, and manager perceptions don’t always reveal someone’s full capability. She shares her own experience of working in a role that didn’t fully use her strengths, and explains how limited opportunities, low confidence, a lack of psychological safety, or the wrong working conditions can hide valuable talent within an organisation. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Human Capability, The AI Age, Psychological Safety Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture Episode 295: From Individual Strengths to Team Capability Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 315: Imposter Syndrome: Why Confidence ≠ Capability About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus: Are you actually taking charge of your career? | 28 sept. 2026 | 00:13:57 | |
Are you taking charge of your career, or leaving things to chance? In this bonus episode, Aoife shares her key takeaways from her conversation with Wanda Wallace, and offers some extra insights that didn't make it into the full interview. If you haven't listened to the full episode yet, make sure to go back and give it a listen. Here are some of the key insights from Aoife’s chat with Wanda:
You can go sideways, hit a dead end and climb back down, and take longer branches. Breadth of experience matters if you want to reach the top, and a sideways move isn't a step backwards.
Leaders aren't taught how to help people with theirs, and most of us aren't taught to own ours. Bosses are often too busy with their own.
Wanda's reflection exercise: think about the people you admire, what you're proud of, and where you've made a difference. Patterns will emerge.
Being indispensable where you are can keep you there. Bring others in to help with the urgent fires, and show your manager everything on your plate along with your view of what to deprioritize. Ask yourself: am I doing this because I'm good at it, or because I should be doing it? Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Wanda Wallace | Executive Coach, Top Teams Advisor, Keynote Speaker, Author & Podcast Host: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work Episode 316: Mastering your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick Resources: Aoife’s conversation on Wanda’s Podcast About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. | |||
| 322: Build the Career You Truly Want with Wanda Wallace | 25 sept. 2026 | 00:42:05 | |
Do you want to take more control of your career and navigate difficult workplace situations with greater confidence? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien speaks with Wanda Wallace, executive coach, speaker, and author of Taking Charge of Your Career. Wanda shares practical advice for managing your career, building an authentic personal brand, defining success on your own terms, and responding to setbacks without feeling powerless. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Personal Development, Navigating Setbacks, Comparison Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Wanda Wallace | Executive Coach, Top Teams Advisor, Keynote Speaker, Author & Podcast Host: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work Episode 316: Mastering your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick Resources: Aoife’s conversation on Wanda’s Podcast About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 321: Redesigning Work in The Age of AI | 18 sept. 2026 | 00:16:52 | |
How can AI help us redesign work instead of simply making it faster? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores how artificial intelligence could change the way work gets done. Rather than focusing only on automation and efficiency, she asks a more fundamental question: what work needs to happen at all, and where does it create value? Drawing on her experience in market research, she reimagines the traditional client brief as a focused conversation about the decision that needs to be made, with AI providing access to information and people bringing context, judgment, and the right questions. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Human Capability, Meetings at Work, Decision-making Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 251: How I use AI in My Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 275: AI Won’t Take your Job, but It Will Redefine It Episode 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus: Why AI Amplifies Broken Work | 14 sept. 2026 | 00:13:32 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife revisits her conversation with Josh Levine to dig into one big question: what actually is work, and what makes it valuable, especially now that AI has made specialist knowledge a commodity? She unpacks why the instinct to use AI to simply do current work "more efficiently" is the wrong starting point, and argues instead for using AI as a prompt to redesign work from a clean slate around where human judgment, discernment, and thinking time genuinely add value. She also explores Josh's definition of culture, the temptation to outsource thinking (not just tasks) to AI, the risks of unbundling work into disconnected AI-assisted pieces, and the harder organisational questions AI raises. What you’ll take away:
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Josh Levine | Author, educator, culture strategist, and advocate for better work futures: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 251: How I use AI in My Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 275: AI Won’t Take your Job, but It Will Redefine It Episode 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 320: Why AI Amplifies Broken Work with Josh Levine | 11 sept. 2026 | 00:47:12 | |
How should we rethink work in the age of AI? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife has a thought-provoking conversation with Josh Levine, author, educator, culture strategist, and advocate for better work futures. Together, they explore what work actually means, how organisations create value, and why AI is forcing leaders and knowledge workers to rethink how work gets done. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Workplace Culture, Happiness & Fulfillment at Work, Asking Better Questions Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Josh Levine | Author, educator, culture strategist, and advocate for better work futures: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 251: How I use AI in My Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 275: AI Won’t Take your Job, but It Will Redefine It Episode 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 319: Rethinking Harmful Behaviours at Work | 04 sept. 2026 | 00:12:29 | |
Have you ever considered how the dynamics of bullying in the workplace affect belonging and psychological safety? In this thought-provoking solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien opens up about her personal experiences with bullying, from her childhood to her professional journey. Inspired by a recent post from Amy Cuddy, Aoife examines the often-overlooked complexity of bullying, emphasising that it's rarely a simple case of "bully" and "victim." Instead, she uncovers the powerful role of group dynamics, bystanders, and exclusion in perpetuating negative environments at work. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Workplace Dynamics, Psychological Safety, Building a Reputation Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 217: How Can We Identify & Overcome Self-Sabotage Behaviours at Work? Episode 218: How Can You Improve Happiness & Trust at Work with Matt Phelan Episode 247: Navigating the Drama Triangle at Work with Aoife O’Brien Episode 291: How to Fix Toxic Cultures About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 318: Foster Thriving Teams: A Happier at Work Special | 28 août 2026 | 00:18:39 | |
Are you ready to discover what truly drives high performance at work? In this thought-provoking mashup episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien brings together insights from 8 powerful conversations with global experts on communication, psychological safety, leadership, generational differences, job design, employee experience, and the impact of AI in the modern workplace. Exploring the importance of workplace conditions over individual effort, this episode unpacks why creating the right environment is foundational to helping people and organisations thrive. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Communication at Work, Building resilience, Employee Experience Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Listen to the Full Episodes here: Episode 288: Conflict & Communication with Catherine Stothart Episode 292: Psychological Safety with Amy Edmondson Episode 294: Leadership Mental Health with Melissa Doman Episode 298: Today’s Multigenerational Workforce with Mary Collins Episode 302: Overwhelm & Thriving Teams with Leanne Elliott Episode 308: Employee Experience with Gráinne Earley Episode 310: Impact & Value with Dr. Shirley Kavanagh Episode 312: AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| LQ: How do I become a more effective leader (in the age of AI)? | 24 août 2026 | 00:04:53 | |
With AI transforming the way we work, many leaders are asking what this means for their role. Will AI replace managers, or will it make great leadership more important than ever? In this episode, host Aoife O'Brien shares why she believes the future belongs to leaders who focus less on having all the answers and more on creating the conditions for their people to succeed. While AI can help us automate tasks and improve productivity, it can't replace the human skills that build high-performing teams—creating clarity, coaching others, exercising good judgement and building trust. Drawing on the principles of the Thriving Talent Framework, she explores what effective leadership looks like in a world where technology is evolving rapidly but people still need purpose, direction and support. In this episode:
Questions to ask your team
Key takeaway AI might make us faster, but great leaders make people better. The organisations that thrive won't simply be the ones with the best technology—they'll be the ones with leaders who know how to unlock the potential of the people around them. Resources📘 Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention Find out more about the book and order your copy here: https://thrivingtalentbook.com 🎙️ Subscribe to the Happier at Work podcast so you never miss an episode. If you found this episode useful, please leave a rating or review and share it with another leader who might benefit. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 317: Keeping Top Talent Without Promotions | 21 août 2026 | 00:13:49 | |
Do you feel stuck when career progression isn’t an option for you? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien explores what you can do to support employee growth and fulfillment, especially when promotions and pay rises aren’t on the table. Drawing from her No-Show-Grow framework, Aoife shifts the conversation from traditional career ladders to the untapped potential and deeper human needs that motivate individuals to thrive at work. You’ll learn how focusing on drivers like autonomy, recognition, and meaningful challenge can lead to better retention, engagement, and development, even without traditional advancement. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Workplace Culture, Personal Development, Drivers at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 293: Recognising & Understanding your Drivers at Work Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus: Take Control of your Inner Propaganda | 17 août 2026 | 00:16:43 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife shares the key takeaways from her insightful conversation with Owen Fitzpatrick, breaking down what beliefs are, how they're formed, and most importantly, the specific actions you can take today to start reshaping the beliefs that hold you back. What you’ll take away:
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Owen Fitzpatrick | Psychologist & Author of ‘Inner Propaganda: Leading Hearts and Minds Through Turbulent Times’: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 149: Discovering your Motive Mindset with Kelly Mackin Episode 201: Redefining your Own Career Success with Gary Crotaz Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 316: Mastering Your Inner Narrative with Owen Fitzpatrick | 14 août 2026 | 00:42:54 | |
How do your beliefs shape your identity and your success at work? In this thought-provoking episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien is joined by author and psychologist Owen Fitzpatrick for a deep dive into the hidden power of beliefs in both personal and organisational contexts. Centered around Owen’s new book, ‘Inner Propaganda: Leading Hearts and Minds Through Turbulent Times’, the conversation explores how our internal narratives, shaped by beliefs, stories, and identities, profoundly impact our mental health, workplace engagement, and ability to grow. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Public Perception, Judgement, Workplace Dynamics Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Owen Fitzpatrick | Psychologist & Author of ‘Inner Propaganda: Leading Hearts and Minds Through Turbulent Times’: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 149: Discovering your Motive Mindset with Kelly Mackin Episode 201: Redefining your Own Career Success with Gary Crotaz Episode 285: Fixed vs Growth Mindset at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| LQ: Why Do Capable People Doubt Themselves? | 10 août 2026 | 00:05:17 | |
If you've ever thought, "I'm not good enough," despite having the skills, experience and evidence to prove otherwise, you're not alone. In this listener question episode, host Aoife O'Brien explores why capable people often experience self-doubt and why confidence isn't always an accurate reflection of capability. Drawing on insights from her latest Imposter Syndrome Report, she discusses how our childhood experiences, education, workplace environments and past experiences can shape the stories we tell ourselves about our abilities. She also explores the common situations that trigger self-doubt, from starting a new role to receiving feedback, being promoted, comparing ourselves to others or operating outside our comfort zone. Most importantly, she explains why self-doubt isn't just something we think—it influences how we behave, often leading to perfectionism, procrastination, over-preparing, people-pleasing or holding ourselves back from opportunities. In this episode:
Key takeaway Feeling capable and being capable aren't the same thing. Instead of asking yourself, "Do I feel confident enough?" ask, "What evidence do I have that I'm capable?" Resources📘 Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention Find out more about the book and order your copy here: https://thrivingtalentbook.com 📄 Download the Imposter Syndrome Report https://www.impostersyndrome.ie/report 🎙️ Subscribe to the Happier at Work podcast so you never miss an episode. If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you could leave a rating or review—it helps more people discover the show. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 315: Imposter Syndrome: Why Confidence ≠ Capability | 07 août 2026 | 00:14:13 | |
Have you ever wondered how imposter syndrome could be quietly costing your organisation top talent and innovative ideas? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the data behind her State of Imposter Syndrome at Work report, revealing how imposter syndrome isn’t just an individual’s challenge, it’s a pressing organisational issue. She shares her own experiences and highlights the staggering fact that around 90% of professionals have faced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. Aoife unpacks how confidence is often confused with capability, leading to untapped potential and missed opportunities in teams. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Personal Development, Self-awareness, Psychological Safety Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes & Resources: Episode 223: Imposter Syndrome: The Invisible Barrier to Workplace Success Episode 281: How Managers Accidentally Fuel Imposter Syndrome About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus: Empowering People Through Purpose | 03 août 2026 | 00:12:13 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife revisits her conversation with John Bernatovicz and offers her expert insight on purpose, HR culture, ownership, and finding meaning at work. If you haven't listened to the full episode with John yet, make sure to give it a listen. Here are some of the key takeaways:Most companies don't actually have a defined purpose John's research found that outside of not-for-profits, the vast majority of companies don't have a real, articulated sense of purpose, often only turning to "giving back" once they've already made significant money. Meanwhile, 80% of employees say they want to work somewhere with genuine intention behind its purpose. Purpose doesn't have to be a "big, grand thing" Purpose isn't only about world-changing missions. Aoife references the "big P vs. little P" purpose concept from her episode with Sharath Jeevan, plus Adam Grant's take on the same idea, purpose can simply be about the impact you have on the people and community around you. Connect everyday work to real impact One of the biggest levers for engagement: clearly linking people's day-to-day tasks to the outcomes and impact they create, for clients, colleagues, or the wider mission. Without that connection, people can feel like they're just going through the motions. Purpose vs. profitability Money is fleeting, chasing wealth, lifestyle, or "toeing the company line" for a paycheck eventually takes its toll. The conversation touched on leaders who reach a breaking point when the job no longer aligns with their values, and the idea that compromising your values catches up with you eventually. We spend ~15% of our lives at work That's a meaningful enough chunk of life to make sure you're spending it somewhere that feels worthwhile. Recognition matters If your contributions aren't being seen, heard, or valued, it may be time to look elsewhere, you deserve to have your work recognised. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with John Bernatovicz | Author of “HR Like a Boss” and founder of Willory: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 120: The Journey to Self Mastery and Success with Sharath Jeevan Episode 267: Creating A Positive Workplace Episode 191: The Pursuit of Purpose: Shifting Perspectives with Will Polston About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 314: HR Like a Boss with John Bernatovicz | 31 juil. 2026 | 00:46:30 | |
What does it truly mean to be purpose-driven at work, and how can HR play a pivotal role in transforming workplace culture? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife sits down with John Bernadovich, author of “HR Like a Boss” and founder of Willory. John shares his journey from math-loving HR professional to published author and business owner, delving into his passion for creating people-centric, purpose-driven organisations. Together, they explore the critical connections between organisational purpose, employee engagement, personal agency, and profitability, all while challenging common misconceptions about HR’s place in the business world. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Public Perception, Self-ownership, Mindset at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with John Bernatovicz | Author of “HR Like a Boss” and founder of Willory: Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 267: Creating A Positive Workplace Episode 191: The Pursuit of Purpose: Shifting Perspectives with Will Polston About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| LQ: Why Is My Team Performing So Differently? | 29 juil. 2026 | 00:05:18 | |
Why do some people on your team seem to thrive while others struggle, even though they're all working for the same manager? It's a question many leaders ask themselves. The instinct is often to assume they're doing something wrong or that they need to become a "better" manager. In this episode, host Aoife O'Brien explores why the answer isn't usually about becoming a different leader, it's about recognising that different people need different conditions to perform at their best. Drawing on the Thriving Talent Framework from her book Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention, she explains why treating everyone the same doesn't necessarily create fairness, and why great leadership is about understanding what each individual needs to thrive. In this episode, she covers:
The three questions Try asking each member of your team:
These simple conversations can reveal far more than another performance review. Resources📘 Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention Find out more about the book and order your copy here: https://thrivingtalentbook.com You can also find Thriving Talent wherever books are sold. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 313: Rethinking Perfectionism at Work | 24 juil. 2026 | 00:13:31 | |
Is perfectionism really holding you back, or could it be your secret superpower? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien challenges the common belief that perfectionism is always a bad thing. Reflecting on her personal experiences as a "recovering perfectionist," she explores how a desire for perfection can actually add value, both professionally and personally when applied intentionally and in the right context. Drawing on examples from book editing, public speaking, and day-to-day tasks, she encourages you to rethink how and when to strive for perfection, and when “good enough” truly is enough. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Book Publishing, Expectations, Positive Feedback Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 189: Overcoming Perfectionism and Prioritising Well-Being with Jordana Confino About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now | |||
| Bonus: The AI Productivity Paradox | 20 juil. 2026 | 00:17:03 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife O'Brien breaks down the key insights from her conversation with Rebecca Hines about AI, productivity, and human judgment at work. If you haven't caught the full interview yet, this is your highlight reel, and a great reason to go back and listen to our chat. What we Cover The AI Productivity Paradox Why individual productivity gains from AI aren't translating into gains at the team, department, or organisational level. "Bot-sitting" vs. "Bot-shitting" Individuals report gaining back roughly 11 hours a week from AI tools, but a large chunk of that time goes into "bot-sitting": feeding context, cleaning up outputs, and re-prompting. When fatigue sets in, bot-sitting can tip into "bot-shitting", shipping unchecked, unverified AI output (aka AI slop). What Should AI Actually Be Used For? A look at the "jagged frontier" of AI capability, where it can excel at complex tasks yet stumble on simple ones, and why testing the boundaries (including AI immersion weeks) helps clarify where it genuinely adds value. Your "Secret Sauce" Why doubling down on what you're uniquely capable of, your human judgment, expertise, and critical thinking, matters more as AI takes on more of the routine work. Generalist vs. Specialist Why deep domain expertise, not broad generalist knowledge, is what lets you meaningfully challenge and question AI output. Blame and Responsibility The danger of outsourcing judgment (and blame) to AI, and why humans remain accountable for anything shipped, AI-assisted or not. The Context Problem Why generic AI tools lack your organization's unique context, and why it matters to actively challenge AI outputs rather than accepting the first answer, especially since AI is often designed to tell you what you want to hear. Defining "What Good Looks Like" Why so few of us have clearly defined what a good outcome actually looks like in our roles, and how AI itself can be used as a thinking partner to help define it. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Rebecca Hinds | Author & Head of the Work AI Institute at Glean: Resources & Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 192: The Power of AI in Behind the Scenes Workflows with Aoife O’Brien Episode 251: How I Use AI in my Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 296: Learning in the Age of AI with Damon Lembi About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 312: Maximising AI Productivity with Rebecca Hinds | 17 juil. 2026 | 00:45:12 | |
Are you making the most out of AI at work, or is it leaving you overwhelmed? In this thought-provoking episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien sits down with Rebecca Hinds, leader of the Work AI Institute at Glean, to explore the cutting edge of artificial intelligence in the workplace. Drawing from the latest findings in Glean’s AI Work Index Report, Rebecca unpacks the paradox between the promise of AI-driven productivity and the reality of ‘bot sitting’ and ‘bot shitting’, the new workplace phenomena everyone is talking about. Together, they delve into what organisations and individuals are doing right and wrong with AI, and share practical strategies for harnessing its true potential without succumbing to overwhelm. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Human Impact, Overwhelm at Work, Personal Development Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Rebecca Hinds | Author & Head of the Work AI Institute at Glean: Resources & Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 192: The Power of AI in Behind the Scenes Workflows with Aoife O’Brien Episode 251: How I Use AI in my Business and Personal life with Aoife O’Brien Episode 296: Learning in the Age of AI with Damon Lembi About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 311: The Hidden Costs of People Pleasing Leadership | 10 juil. 2026 | 00:18:33 | |
Are you a people-pleasing boss, or working for one? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien delves into the challenges and pitfalls of people-pleasing leadership, a topic sparked by her recent trip across the US and conversations with managers and employees alike. Drawing from relatable scenarios and personal experience, Aoife unpacks why leaders who strive to be liked at all costs often undermine both their team’s effectiveness and their own authority. She provides insights into how these behaviours can lead to unresolved conflict, overwhelmed teams, blurred boundaries, and a lack of clarity in decision-making. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Boundaries, Role Models at Work, Personal Development Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham. About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus Episode: Creating Impact and Value at Work | 06 juil. 2026 | 00:12:56 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife gives her key takeaways from her conversation with Dr. Shirley Kavanagh, executive coach, team facilitator, and PhD researcher, on how individuals and organisations can create genuine impact and value at work, especially in a world of constant change and distraction. Key Takeaways 1. Know what drives your business Whether you're in HR, a support function, or any other role, understanding the commercial drivers, KPIs, and performance metrics of your organisation is how you earn credibility and a seat at the table. You can't demonstrate value if you don't know what the business is measuring. 2. Always ask: where's the value here? Before diving into any new initiative, tool, or project, pause and ask: what are we actually trying to achieve? Who benefits? What is the impact? This discipline applies whether you're an individual contributor, a team leader, or a senior executive. 3. Give yourself permission to pause In a world of relentless busyness, the pause is a superpower. Stepping back, even briefly, to reassess direction, priorities, and purpose is not a sign of weakness. It's a mark of strong leadership. 4. AI is a tool, not a friend Generative AI can save time, but it requires significant human input, review, and judgement. As Shirley puts it: AI doesn't care about you. Be aware of its limitations, particularly around nuance, emotional intelligence, and context. 5. Course correction is a strength Just because a decision was made doesn't mean you have to stick with it. Revisiting priorities as circumstances change, and being honest when something isn't working, takes courage, but it's essential for effective leadership today. 6. After action reviews still matter Taking time after a project or initiative to honestly assess what worked, what didn't, and what you'd do differently is one of the most underused disciplines in organisations. It's not about blame, it's about learning. 7. Cognitive diversity makes teams stronger Having people with genuinely different perspectives, experiences, and ways of thinking in the room will challenge your ideas, and that's exactly the point. The best outcomes come from teams willing to have courageous conversations. 8. Happiness at work evolves What makes us happy at work shifts throughout our careers, from relationships and money early on, to purpose and impact later. Taking stock of where you are now, and what actually matters to you, is worth doing regularly. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Dr. Shirley Kavanagh | Executive Advisor, Shirley Kavanagh Consulting: Resources & Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 195: Workplace Culture Dynamics: Creating a Positive Work Environment with Caroline Collins Episode 236: Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership with Maggie Jackson Episode 228: Fostering Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 310: Creating Impact and Value at Work with Dr. Shirley Kavanagh | 03 juil. 2026 | 00:42:31 | |
Are you struggling to see the true value and impact of your work in today’s fast-paced environment? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien welcomes Dr. Shirley Kavanagh for a deep dive into creating real value and impact at work. Together, they explore how to align daily activities with desired business outcomes, the importance of discipline and pausing for reflection, and why HR practices need to be connected to business strategy. Shirley shares her journey from financial services to executive coaching and organisational development, drawing on her PhD research into how people practices are actually implemented in organisations. The conversation highlights the challenges of keeping up with rapid change, especially with new technologies like AI, and emphasises practical ways individuals and leaders can prioritise what truly matters. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Human Connection, AI in the Workplace, Diversity at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Dr. Shirley Kavanagh | Executive Advisor, Shirley Kavanagh Consulting: Resources & Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 195: Workplace Culture Dynamics: Creating a Positive Work Environment with Caroline Collins Episode 236: Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership with Maggie Jackson Episode 228: Fostering Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 309: Discovering Universal Concerns on a Book Tour Across America! | 26 juin 2026 | 00:14:59 | |
Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to work, travel, and connect across America? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien returns from a five-and-a-half-week US book tour with eye-opening reflections on American culture, workplace mindsets, and what unites us all as humans. She shares her honest observations on wealth disparities, the vastness of the country, technological innovations, and how open people in the US are to new connections, including stories that led to unexpected opportunities and meaningful relationships. Aoife also digs into the universality of workplace concerns, revealing that despite cultural and political differences, we all seek security, connection, and a sense of purpose at work. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Human Openness & Connection, Technology, Engagement Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham. About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus Episode: How to Shape Meaningful Employee Experiences | 22 juin 2026 | 00:08:21 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife gives the key insights from her conversation with Gráinne Earley, Director of Employee Experience Solutions at Fuel HQ. Gráinne brings a background in performing arts and events into the world of work, and that creative lens shapes everything she does. This bonus episode pulls out the most important insights so you can put them straight into practice. Key Takeaways🔑Employee experience is everything, every single touchpoint an employee has from the day they join a company to the day they leave. It's not just the parties and the perks. It's the way someone is greeted at reception, the quality of their onboarding, whether their manager knows their name and their preferences, whether they feel recognised and like they matter as an individual. 🔑 First impressions have a long tail. A poor onboarding experience doesn't just create a bad first week — it actively reduces how long someone will stay. 🔑 One size fits all is the baseline, not the goal. You might capture 60 or 70 percent of people with general initiatives, but employees today expect to be seen as individuals. 🔑 Speed matters as much as personalisation right now. The big trend Gráinne is watching isn't just individualisation, it's the expectation that things move quickly. 🔑 Presence beats duration every time. Leaders often feel they don't have the time for connection, but a fully present 15-minute check-in is worth far more than an hour where you're half-distracted. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Gráinne Earley | Employee Experience Director at FUEL: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 262: Foster Connection using Compassionate Leadership with Jen Marr Episode 260: How to Make Work Meaningful with Zach Mercurio About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 308: How to Shape Meaningful Employee Experiences with Gráinne Earley | 19 juin 2026 | 00:41:01 | |
How can leaders shape meaningful moments that create lasting impact on the employee experience? In this insightful episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien is joined by Gráinne Earley, Director of Employee Experience Solutions at FUEL, to dive deep into what employee experience truly means, from both a leadership and organisational perspective. Gráinne draws on her creative background in events and performing arts to illustrate how intentional touchpoints, big and small, shape workplace culture, drive engagement, and enhance retention. Together, they explore the critical role of leaders in moving beyond “just HR’s job,” offering practical advice for bringing joy, recognition, and genuine care to every stage of the employee life cycle. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Role Models at Work, Artificial Intelligence, Human Connection Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Gráinne Earley | Employee Experience Director at FUEL: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 262: Foster Connection using Compassionate Leadership with Jen Marr Episode 260: How to Make Work Meaningful with Zach Mercurio About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 307: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Unexpected Obstacles | 12 juin 2026 | 00:08:57 | |
Have you ever let nerves or setbacks stop you from reaching your next big goal? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at her US book tour for "Thriving Talent." Broadcasting from San Francisco, Aoife shares both the exciting highlights and the unseen struggles of traveling alone, everything from logistical headaches and moments of isolation to being featured in Forbes. She dives into a personal story about overcoming her hesitation to drive in the US again, using the metaphor of navigating challenging roads (literally and figuratively) for the kinds of setbacks we all encounter in our careers. Forbes article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/aparnarae/2026/05/13/employee-engagement-hit-a-10-year-low-the-problem-isnt-people---its-organizational-systems/ In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Overcoming Challenges, Confidence at Work, self-doubt Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 300: How Great Leaders Build Thriving Teams with Bhushan Sethi About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now | |||
| Bonus Episode: Redesigning Workplace Culture Without the Contract | 08 juin 2026 | 00:09:27 | |
In this bonus episode, Aoife shares the key takeaways from her conversation with Matthew Cook, co-founder of The Shift, a learning and culture consultancy dedicated to helping organisations create environments where people can flourish. Matt brings a fascinating perspective shaped by a background in philosophy and advertising before finding his true calling in people and culture. Together, Aoife and Matt explore what employees should really expect from their workplaces beyond the signed contract, how leaders shape the culture their teams experience every day, and why so many of the systems and structures we've inherited at work are simply no longer fit for purpose. It's a rich, honest conversation that challenges some of the most deeply embedded assumptions about how organisations operate. Here are some of the key insights: 🔑Employees today are far more aware of everything being asked of them — not just what's written in their contract, but the full picture of the employer-employee relationship. Matt argues this shift toward greater consciousness isn't a bad thing, but it does mean organisations need to be far more intentional about building connection, belonging, and psychological safety, rather than assuming goodwill or discretionary effort will simply show up. 🔑The common expectation that employees must already be operating at the next level before being considered for promotion often breeds resentment — by the time the promotion arrives, the excitement is gone. Matt makes the case for promoting based on potential, with the right support structures in place, as a far more powerful driver of loyalty and engagement. 🔑Matt's research found that 48% of managers feel too busy to manage effectively, and 72% don't ask for support. Managers are being squeezed from every direction, expected to deliver results while also showing up as coaches, emotional supports, and culture carriers. The fix, Matt suggests, isn't always more training — often the real issue is structural, and organisations need to give managers the time and space to actually do the job well. 🔑From organisational structures to values to progression frameworks, the majority of what shapes culture in organisations was never intentionally chosen — it was simply inherited from how companies have always been run. Matt's core argument is that leaders need to interrogate these defaults with fresh eyes, asking whether each element is genuinely fit for purpose today, rather than assuming that because something has always been done a certain way, it must still be the right way. Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Matthew Cook | Co-founder of The Shift: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Ep 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture Ep. 267: Creating a Positive Workplace About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now | |||
| 306: Redesigning Workplace Culture Without the Contract with Matthew Cook | 05 juin 2026 | 00:50:16 | |
Are you ready to rethink workplace culture for lasting happiness and performance? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O’Brien sits down with Matthew Cook, co-founder of The Shift, for an in-depth discussion on how organisations and leaders can intentionally shape workplace culture to foster happier, more engaged teams. Drawing from personal experience, ongoing research, and real-world examples, Matthew explores why company culture is more prominent post-COVID, how the “psychological contract” between employer and employee has shifted, and what leaders can do to create teams where everyone thrives. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Mindset at Work, Societal Shifts, Leadership & Responsibilities Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Matthew Cook | Co-founder of The Shift: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Ep 289: Leadership Choices that Define your Culture Ep. 267: Creating a Positive Workplace About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now | |||
| 305: Breaking the Cycle of Ineffective Leadership | 29 mai 2026 | 00:12:52 | |
Are your people leaders equipped to inspire, engage, and retain your top talent? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien delves into the crucial role of people leaders and why so many organisations inadvertently set managers, and their teams up for failure. Drawing from her recent book launch and audience Q&A at Google in Dublin, Aoife unpacks the dangers of promoting high-performing individual contributors without providing them with essential leadership training. Backed by research and personal experience, she sheds light on the staggering hidden costs of untrained managers, from disengaged employees to sky-high attrition rates. She highlights effective strategies for building psychologically safe, high-performing teams within the Thriving Talent Framework and offers actionable insights on the three core skills every manager needs. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Psychological Safety, Feedback at Work, Personal Development Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 113: How to Handle a Bad Boss with Aoife O’Brien About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus Episode: How to Make Meetings More Effective | 25 mai 2026 | 00:10:21 | |
In this week’s bonus episode, Aoife O’Brien reflects on her conversation with Mamie Kanfer Stewart all about meetings: Why so many of them fail, what that says about our leadership and culture, and how to start designing them with intention. If you've ever sat through a meeting thinking "I could be doing actual work right now," this one's for you. Here are the key takeaways:
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Mamie Kanfer Stewart | Founder of Meeteor, Author & Podcast Host: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 259: How to make one-to-one meetings count at work About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now | |||
| 304: How to Make Meetings More Effective with Mamie Kanfer Stewart | 22 mai 2026 | 00:52:02 | |
Are endless meetings draining your productivity? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien sits down with Mamie Kanfer Stewart, author of the acclaimed book "Momentum," to dive deep into the art and science of running effective meetings. Drawing from her unique experience growing up in a family business with vibrant, purposeful meetings and contrasting it with the all-too-common reality of "meeting overload," Mamie offers practical strategies to transform your organization’s meeting culture. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Mindset at Work, Communication at Work, Workplace Culture Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Mamie Kanfer Stewart | Founder of Meeteor, Author & Podcast Host: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 259: How to make one-to-one meetings count at work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 303: Laziness at Work: Is It Leadership, Environment, or Personal Choice? | 15 mai 2026 | 00:14:31 | |
Are some people at work simply lazy, or is disengagement an organisational issue? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife dives deep into the controversial topic of "quiet quitting" and whether workplace disengagement is a result of individual laziness or systemic challenges within organisations. Drawing from recent opinion pieces and the launch of the Thriving Talent book, Aoife questions long-held assumptions about employee motivation, ambition, and accountability, exploring how workplace environments, values, and leadership play pivotal roles in shaping people’s willingness to contribute. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Life Changes, Feedback at Work, Personal Development Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Bonus Episode: How to Reduce Overwhelm and Build Thriving Teams | 11 mai 2026 | 00:10:05 | |
In this bonus episode of the The Happier at Work Podcast, host Aoife O’Brien reflects on her recent conversation with Leanne Elliott, unravelling the growing sense of overwhelm affecting both individuals and organisations. Together, Aoife and Leanne explored practical ways to reduce stress, foster genuine connections, and build psychological safety at work, all while linking these priorities to commercial success and organisational values. Here are the key takeaways:
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Leanne Elliott | Chartered Psychologist & Podcast Host: Related Episodes You’ll Love: 234: From Overwhelm to Intentional Fulfillment with Cherylanne Skolnicki About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now | |||
| 302: How to Reduce Overwhelm and Build Thriving Teams with Leanne Elliott | 08 mai 2026 | 00:48:01 | |
Are you struggling with overwhelm at work and wondering how to create a thriving, positive environment? In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife sits down with Leanne Elliott, occupational psychologist and host of Truth, Lies and Work, to unravel the growing sense of overwhelm affecting both individuals and organisations. Together, they explore practical ways to reduce stress, foster genuine connections, and build psychological safety at work, all while linking these priorities to commercial success and organisational values. The conversation covers actionable strategies to address overwhelm from both individual and leadership perspectives, and highlights the importance of rest, recovery, civility, and creating conditions where people can truly thrive. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Strengths at Work, Burnout, Workplace Expectations Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Leanne Elliott | Chartered Psychologist & Podcast Host: Related Episodes You’ll Love: 234: From Overwhelm to Intentional Fulfillment with Cherylanne Skolnicki About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 301: Rethinking How We Build Resilience at Work | 01 mai 2026 | 00:15:44 | |
Are you struggling to balance resilience with realistic workplace expectations? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien takes a deep dive into the concept of resilience at work. Challenging the traditional view that resilience is purely an individual trait, Aoife explores the systemic factors that shape our need for resilience, and makes a compelling case for addressing both personal practices and organisational structures. Through personal stories, frameworks from her book "Thriving Talent," and live audience reflections, Aoife highlights the importance of psychological safety, values alignment, and sustainable workplace cultures. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Self Care, Burnout, Psychological Safety Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 258: How to be More Resilient with MH Pelletier About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 300: How Great Leaders Build Thriving Teams with Bhushan Sethi, Live from NYC! | 24 avr. 2026 | 00:32:37 | |
How can leaders and organisations create truly thriving and happier workplaces in today’s ever-changing world? In this milestone 300th episode of the Happier at Work podcast, recorded live at PwC in New York, host Aoife O’ Brien swaps seats and answers insightful questions from Bhushan Sethi about her new book, “Thriving Talent.” Together, Aoife and Bhushan dig into practical ways individuals and organisations can drive performance, foster well-being, and build resilient cultures where both people and business results thrive, even amid global disruption, generational shifts, and the rise of AI. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Cost & Turnover, Transparency at Work, Thriving Talent Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Bhushan Sethi | Partner at PwC: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 50: Bhushan Sethi on the Future of Work Episode 150: Navigating the New Business Landscape with Bhushan Sethi Episode 200: Reskilling Diversity and Building a Happier Workplace with Bhushan Sethi Bonus Episode: Bhushan Sethi on Building a Happier Workplace About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Marketing & Publicity: How to Get The Word Out | 17 avr. 2026 | 00:10:47 | |
How do you use marketing to achieve success? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien offers an honest and practical deep dive into the realities of publishing, writing, and marketing “Thriving Talent.” From deciding to create a dedicated website to navigating the emotional journey of seeking endorsements and handling criticism, you’ll hear how success depends on much more than just writing the book. Aoife also pulls back the curtain on the hard work and resilience it takes to market a book, building relationships, orchestrating publicity, and celebrating community support. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 293: Recognising and Understanding your Drivers at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| What Really Goes into Writing and Editing a Leadership Book | 10 avr. 2026 | 00:10:32 | |
Have you ever wondered what the next steps are after writing a book? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien dives deep into the realities of the book writing and publishing process, sharing personal challenges, victories, and lessons learned while creating "Thriving Talent." If you’ve ever doubted your ability to write a book or are simply curious about what it takes, this episode uncovers the structure, self-doubt, editing hurdles, and feedback loops essential to bringing a book to life. Aoife also sheds light on the ongoing journey of editing, proofreading, and preparing to get the book into readers’ hands, with a sneak peek into the marketing efforts still to come. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 293: Recognising and Understanding your Drivers at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| Behind the Scenes of Publishing Thriving Talent | 03 avr. 2026 | 00:11:06 | |
Are you curious about what really goes on behind the scenes of publishing a book? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien offers a candid, insightful look into the journey from book idea to publication week for her debut business book, "Thriving Talent." From early aspirations and overcoming doubts to finding the right writing community and publisher, she demystifies the often opaque world of book publishing. Whether you’re dreaming of publishing your own book or simply intrigued by the process, this episode provides both encouragement and practical wisdom. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 293: Recognising and Understanding your Drivers at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| It's Publication Day for Thriving Talent! | 30 mars 2026 | 00:10:18 | |
Today is publication day for my book, Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention. https://www.thrivingtalentbook.com This isn’t just a milestone moment—it’s a chance to pause and reflect on what this journey has really been about. Because writing a book isn’t just about getting your ideas down on paper. It changes how you think. It forces clarity. It challenges what you thought you knew. In this short solo episode, I’m sharing:
If you’ve ever felt frustrated by disengagement, burnout, or “quiet quitting” in your organisation—this episode (and the book) is for you. Key Takeaways
About the Book Thriving Talent introduces a practical, research-backed framework to help leaders create environments where people can perform, grow, and stay. It brings together five core elements:
This is not about adding more to your plate. It’s about focusing on what actually makes a difference. Get the BookIf you’d like to explore these ideas further, you can get your copy of Thriving Talent here: 👉 https://www.thrivingtalentbook.com (First week orders make a huge difference for first-time authors, so thank you for your support.) If this episode resonated, I’d love to hear from you:
Connect with me on LinkedIn or explore more resources at: 🌐 https://happieratwork.ie podcast@happieratwork.ie Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoy the Happier at Work podcast, don’t forget to:
Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ | |||
| 299: How to Overcome Fear in Leadership | 27 mars 2026 | 00:10:04 | |
Are you ready to become a more effective and conscious leader? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien wraps up the Thriving Talent series by delving into the realities of leadership, what it really takes to lead both yourself and others. Drawing on research for her forthcoming book "Thriving Talent" and reflecting on personal experiences, Aoife O'Brien explores the crucial role of self-awareness, the challenges many first-time leaders encounter, and the traits that set great bosses apart from the rest. In This Episode, You’ll Discover:
Related Topics Covered: Bad Bosses, Emotional Awareness, Toxicity at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 75: Let go of fear and Craft your Career with Tiana Madera Episode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola Gershfeld About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book | |||
| Bonus Episode: Navigating Today’s Multigenerational Workforce | 23 mars 2026 | 00:07:46 | |
In this bonus episode of the The Happier at Work Podcast, host Aoife O’Brien reflects on her recent conversation with Dr Mary Collins, exploring the tensions that can arise between generations in the workplace. Rather than framing generational differences as a “people problem,” this episode highlights a more powerful perspective: intergenerational conflict is often a leadership design problem. When expectations, communication systems, and feedback processes aren’t clearly defined, misunderstandings and frustration naturally follow. Aoife breaks down five key insights from the conversation and shares practical actions leaders can take to create stronger collaboration across generations. Here are the key takeaways:
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Connect with Dr. Mary Collins | Chartered Psychologist & Senior Coach Practitioner: Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 262: Foster Connection Using Compassionate Leadership with Jen Marr About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book | |||