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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:
The “pay it forward” culture that supports newcomers and fosters supportive professional communities.Insights into the variety of political opinions across states and how people navigate sharing their views.Universal workplace concerns: job security, team support, personal growth, and the impact of AI on work.The realisation that challenges around purpose, connection, and security are not unique to any one country, they’re truly shared human experiences.Related Topics Covered:
Human Openness & Connection, Technology, Engagement
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
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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®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Gráinne Earley | Employee Experience Director at FUEL:
LinkedInRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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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:
Why employee experience goes far beyond HR initiatives, it's every single touchpoint from day one to the final goodbyeHow first impressions (both at onboarding and in everyday office moments) can make or break long-term engagement and retentionWhy creating a great employee experience is a whole-organisation effort, not something you can hand off to HR aloneThe role of meaningful recognition and celebration in keeping employees engaged well after the honeymoon period fadesRelated Topics Covered:
Role Models at Work, Artificial Intelligence, Human Connection
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Gráinne Earley | Employee Experience Director at FUEL:
LinkedInRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
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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:
The reality behind high-visibility work, and what social media doesn’t show about travel, loneliness, and logistical challenges.How nervousness and setbacks can signal growth opportunities and what to do when you want to give up.Practical encouragement to reflect on your own barriers at work.Related Topics Covered:
Overcoming Challenges, Confidence at Work, self-doubt
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
WebsiteLinkedInYouTubeRelated 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
Book
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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®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Matthew Cook | Co-founder of The Shift:
WebsiteLinkedInRelated 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
Book
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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:
How the psychological contract at work is now more transactional, with employees expecting more than just what’s on paper.The need for organisations to intentionally design (not inherit) their workplace structures and cultures.Practical steps leaders can take: from self-awareness and introspection to adaptive management and fostering new mindsets within teams.The growing importance of EQ (emotional intelligence) and AQ (adaptability quotient) for managers and leaders.Related Topics Covered:
Mindset at Work, Societal Shifts, Leadership & Responsibilities
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Matthew Cook | Co-founder of The Shift:
WebsiteLinkedInRelated 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
Book
-
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:
The key driver of both employee turnover and disengagement at work.The importance of psychological safety for thriving teams, enabling open dialogue, creativity, and resilience, even amidst change.Why untrained managers are prone to inconsistency, micromanagement, and avoiding difficult conversations, behaviours that erode trust and culture.Related Topics Covered:
Psychological Safety, Feedback at Work, Personal Development
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
-
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:Bad meetings are a leadership problem, not just a time problem.Meetings teach people about culture. Every meeting needs a desired outcome. Design around decisions, ownership, and next steps. Question every recurring meeting. Invite the right people, not everyone. Being busy is not the same as being useful.Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Mamie Kanfer Stewart | Founder of Meeteor, Author & Podcast Host:
PodcastWebsiteLinkedInInstagramRelated 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
Book
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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:
Why so many meetings are ineffective, and how to challenge the status quoThe most common meeting mistake: defaulting to information-sharing sessions that could be an email, voice memo, or quick updateStrategies for defining a clear meeting goal or desired outcome before you send an inviteUnderstanding the meeting cycle: before, during, and after, and how to use each phase to include the right people at the right timeRelated Topics Covered:
Mindset at Work, Communication at Work, Workplace Culture
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
WebsiteLinkedInYouTubeConnect with Mamie Kanfer Stewart | Founder of Meeteor, Author & Podcast Host:
PodcastWebsiteLinkedInInstagramRelated 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
Book
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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:
The importance of viewing disengagement as a systemic issue rather than placing blame solely on individuals.The role of recognising and leveraging employees’ strengths to energise performance.The need for regular accountability conversations and clarity of expectations.Related Topics Covered:
Life Changes, Feedback at Work, Personal Development
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
-
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:How to manage overwhelm at work The impact of organisational culture and psychological safety Simple strategies for building healthy team relationships and fostering civilityThe role of job crafting, understanding strengths, and the importance of recovery activities The effect of AI and technology on workplace wellbeingPractical steps for leaders to create thriving, high-performing teams and set boundaries that work Why understanding your own workplace "vitals" leads to fulfillment and happiness at workConnect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Leanne Elliott | Chartered Psychologist & Podcast Host:
PodcastLinkedInRelated 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
Book
-
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:
How practical communication strategies, like honest conversations about preferred message formats, can reduce stress and nurture relationships.Why civility is essential for team happiness and a positive workplace culture.The key recovery activities that are essential for preventing burnout at work.The role of AI in both driving burnout but also creating opportunity.Related Topics Covered:
Strengths at Work, Burnout, Workplace Expectations
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Leanne Elliott | Chartered Psychologist & Podcast Host:
PodcastLinkedInRelated 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
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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:
The pitfalls of treating resilience as only an individual responsibility.How organisational culture, values alignment, and psychological safety affect resilience and well-being.The necessity of open dialogue about workload.Related Topics Covered:
Self Care, Burnout, Psychological Safety
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
-
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:
The importance of setting clear expectations and frequent feedback for performance and well-beingWhy thriving workplaces benefit both people and the bottom line, supported by research showing significant gains in profitability, engagement, and retentionThe difference between “being nice” and true kindness as a leadership strengthUnderstanding the cost of turnover and the business case for investing in peopleRelated Topics Covered:
Cost & Turnover, Transparency at Work, Thriving Talent
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Bhushan Sethi | Partner at PwC:
TikTokLinkedInWebsiteTwitterRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
-
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:
The strategic process of building a dedicated book website and the value of collaborating with professionals for web development and copywriting.Insights into reaching out for endorsements, the importance of having credible voices support your work, and tracking outreach efforts with methodical organisation.The emotional challenges of putting yourself out there: Facing judgment, criticism, and the importance of focusing on feedback from those who are “in the arena.”Related Topics Covered:
Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
WebsiteLinkedInYouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
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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:
The importance of having a clear book structure and breaking content into subsections for clarity and direction.Understanding the value of slowing down and considering your audience’s perspective, ensuring your message is clear to readers who may be new to the topic.How to market your book: It is practically a full-time job, but is an essential next phase for getting your message out.Related Topics Covered:
Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
WebsiteLinkedInYouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
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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:
The difference between the writing process and the publishing process, and why each mattersThe value of joining a writing community for accountability and motivation in early draftsInsights into word counts for business books and how content evolves through editingRelated Topics Covered:
Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
WebsiteLinkedInYouTubeRelated 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
Mentioned in this episode:
Thriving Talent book - out now
Book
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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:
What surprised me most about the writing and publishing processThe deeper message behind Thriving TalentWhy this book isn’t about fixing people at workAnd what I hope this sparks for leaders, teams, and organisationsIf you’ve ever felt frustrated by disengagement, burnout, or “quiet quitting” in your organisation—this episode (and the book) is for you.
Key TakeawaysMost workplace challenges are framed as people problems—but they’re often system problemsEngagement, performance, and retention are outcomes of the environment leaders createWriting a book forces you to move from ideas to clarity—and from clarity to convictionLeadership isn’t about having the title—it’s about how you show up and the conditions you createSmall changes in culture, recognition, and psychological safety can have a significant impact
About the BookThriving 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:
Psychological safetyCultureDrivers of motivationCapabilities and strengthsLeadershipThis 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:
What stood out?What are you seeing in your own organisation?Connect with me on LinkedIn or explore more resources at:
🌐 https://happieratwork.ie
Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoy the Happier at Work podcast, don’t forget to:
Follow or subscribeLeave a reviewShare this episode with someone who needs to hear itWebsite: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ
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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:
The critical importance of self-leadership and self-awareness as the foundation for leading others.The impact of emotional triggers and how understanding your reactions can enhance your leadership.Practical steps to become a more empowering, effective leader.Related Topics Covered:
Bad Bosses, Emotional Awareness, Toxicity at Work
Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeRelated 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
Book
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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:
Intergenerational dynamics at workWhy generational tension is often a leadership design issueCommunication breakdowns across different work stylesDelivering effective feedback across generationsRethinking learning and development in modern workplacesLeveraging generational strengths within teamsConnect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:
Website LinkedIn YouTubeConnect with Dr. Mary Collins | Chartered Psychologist & Senior Coach Practitioner:
InstagramLinkedInRelated 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
Book
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