Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance

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:

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:

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...

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 potent...

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...

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...

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...

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 enou...

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...

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 organ...

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 cl...

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...

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 pr...

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, re...

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...

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,”...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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:

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:

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:

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:

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...

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...

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 Discove...

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...

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, proo...

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...

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:

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:

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 g...

Are you navigating the challenges of leading a multi-generational team at work?

In this enlightening episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien welcomes Dr. Mary Collins, a chartered psychologist and expert in leadership, talent development, and workplace wellbeing. Together, they unravel the complexities and opportunities that come with managing people from different generations, including Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z, side by side in today’s workplace.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

In this Listener Question episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife answers a question many professionals struggle with:

How do you decide what to focus on when your to-do list never seems to end?

Many people end their day feeling busy but not necessarily productive. The issue often isn’t capability or motivation – it’s that our attention is pulled in too many different directions.

Aoife explores how leaders and professionals can shift from reacting to tasks to focusing on work that truly moves things forward.

Drawing on ideas from her up...

Are meetings, emails, and unclear expectations getting in the way of you or your team doing your best work?

In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien delves into one of the biggest workplace challenges: the distractions and blockers that prevent us from tapping into our full capabilities. Building on themes from her upcoming book, "Thriving Talent", Aoife explores how today’s work design often leads us to reward availability and responsiveness over strategic value creation. She shares practical tips for redesigning work environments, moving beyond unproductive meetings and endless inboxes to cu...

In this bonus episode, Aoife takes us through the key takeaways from her conversation with Damon Lembi, CEO of Learn it, to unpack what it really means to learn and lead in the age of AI. As technology accelerates, Damon makes the case that the true competitive advantage isn’t access to AI tools, it’s the ability to stay curious, adaptable, and committed to continuous growth.

Key takeaways:

Are you ready to upskill for success in the age of AI?

In this episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien sits down with Damon Lembi, CEO of Learn It and author of "The Learn It All Leader," to explore the evolving landscape of workplace learning. Together, they delve into the challenges and opportunities of transitioning from individual contributor to manager, and how both leaders and employees can harness the power of AI to augment their daily tasks and accelerate development. Damon shares practical insights about fostering a learning culture, overcoming fear of AI...

Many teams have talented people but still struggle to deliver results consistently.

So what’s missing?

In this Listener Question episode of the Happier at Work® podcast, Aoife answers a question about the difference between individual strengths and team capability.

Having strong individuals does not automatically create a high-performing team. The real shift happens when leaders intentionally design how strengths are used across the team.

Aoife explains why strengths alone are not enough, and how leaders can translate individual strengths into collective capability.

This episode explores how leaders can thi...

Are you making the most of your strengths, and those of your team at work?

In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien dives deep into the crucial role of strengths and capabilities in creating effective, thriving teams. Building on themes from her upcoming book, "Thriving Talent," Aoife explores how understanding and leveraging both individual and collective strengths can transform your work environment. She shares practical strategies for identifying what you and your team are truly good at, overcoming common challenges that block talent, and fostering an open dialogue about strengths in the...