The Thriving Workplace Podcast

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Brad Bulow shares his journey of building Sammut Bulow, an accounting firm that prioritises people, culture, and community. He discusses the importance of viewing employees as assets, the struggles he faced in business, and the lessons learned along the way. Brad emphasizes the significance of a strong team culture, the role of leadership, and the need for work-life balance. He offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the importance of investing in people and maintaining a positive workplace culture.

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In this episode, Michael Furey shares practical insights on how AI can be integrated into leadership and HR practices today. He discusses overcoming fears, leveraging AI for productivity, and embracing a new standard of leadership in a tech-driven world.

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Most leaders have optimised everything in their business except the one system running all of it: their own biology. Fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, declining resilience. These aren't just stress. They're signals. Dr Daniel Kirkbride is the founder...

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Melissa Langton, an HR coach and consultant, discusses the importance of genuine curiosity in leadership and organisational culture. She emphasises the need for leaders to approach challenges with curiosity, utilise meaningful data for decision-making, and involve employees in the process. Melissa shares her journey in HR, the significance of aligning data with business strategy, and the critical role of leadership capability in fostering a positive workplace environment. The conversation highlights the complexities of workplace dynamics and the necessity of understanding different perspectives to drive engagement and success.

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Celebrating 100 episodes of the Thriving Workplace podcast, hosts Jason and Lauren reflect on their journey, lessons learned, memorable guests, and plans for the future. Discover insights on podcasting, leadership, human connection, and continuous growth.

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Most leaders have o...

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Lauren interviews Mark Hodgson, founder of Mind and Body Travel, who shares insights on intentional travel and the importance of wellness-focused journeys. Mark discusses common mistakes people make when planning holidays, emphasising that less is more and the need for rejuvenation rather than burnout. He also highlights the significance of intention in retreats and corporate experiences, offering practical advice for leaders to enhance team dynamics and annual leave experiences. Mark's journey into the travel industry and the role of travel advisors in creating meaningful experiences are also explored, culminating in advice...

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Claire Bateman shares her insights on employee retention, engagement, and the importance of tailored strategies in the workplace. With a focus on flexibility, team agreements, and the unique needs of different employee groups, Claire emphasizes the need for organizations to adapt to the changing job market. She discusses the significance of creating a supportive culture and the role of effective communication in fostering collaboration and connection among employees. The conversation also touches on innovative initiatives like the Cup of Connect, aimed at building relationships within the workplace.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Paul Doherty shares his journey from a civil engineer in Scotland to the founder of a successful project delivery business in Australia. He emphasizes the importance of relationships in business, the mindset shifts required for leadership, and the challenges of managing different personalities within a growing team. Paul discusses the significance of networking, learning from mistakes, and the traits common among successful entrepreneurs. He also highlights the need for structure and processes in building a legitimate business, while encouraging listeners to take action today rather than procrastinating.

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In this episode, Dr. Daniel Kirkbride shares insights from analyzing over 3,000 blood tests to reveal common health deficiencies among high performers and how proactive health testing can prevent long-term disease. Discover why traditional medical tests often miss early warning signs and how data-driven health strategies can optimize performance and future health.

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Most leaders have optimised everything...

In this episode, Claudia Compton breaks down what psychic business consulting actually looks like in practice, why so many high performers are overcomplicating the things that matter most, and how intuition, when you learn to trust it, becomes one of the most powerful leadership tools available.

If you're curious, open-minded, or just stuck in a way you can't quite name, this one might give you a different lens to look through:

This episode explores how organisations can create clarity around workplace behavior and culture. It provides practical tools for defining expectations, modeling behavior, and gathering data to foster a thriving workplace environment.

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Most leaders have optimised everything in...

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jay Pottenger discusses the intersection of neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and leadership in enhancing workplace performance and energy management. He emphasizes the importance of understanding personal energy rhythms, the impact of caffeine and technology on cognitive energy, and the necessity for leaders to model well-being practices. Jay shares practical strategies for improving productivity, setting boundaries with technology, and redesigning meetings to foster a more effective work environment. His personal journey into neuroscience and mental health adds depth to the conversation, highlighting the importance of self-care for leaders and HR managers.

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This episode explores practical time management strategies to reduce stress, increase productivity, and improve work-life balance. Hosted by Jason and Lauren, it offers actionable tools like meeting audits, focus time, and the Eisenhower matrix to help professionals reclaim their time and feel more fulfilled.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Tom Cronin shares his transformative journey from a high-pressure finance career to becoming a leader in meditation and conscious leadership. He reflects on the importance of inner success alongside external achievements, the role of meditation in sustainable performance, and how to create work environments that foster flow states. Tom emphasises the need for emotional regulation and the impact of social media addiction on mental health, while offering practical advice for leaders looking to enhance their team's well-being and productivity.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace Podcast, Jason and Lauren discuss the evolving landscape of leadership, focusing on 6 key capabilities that leaders must develop to thrive in modern organisations. They emphasise the importance of building a culture as a system, leading with purpose rather than pressure, and balancing empathy with accountability. The conversation highlights practical strategies for leaders to foster a supportive and effective workplace culture, ultimately preparing organisations for future challenges.

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In this episode of The Thriving Workplace Podcast, Kylee Leota returns to discuss her insights on leadership, psychological safety, and the importance of addressing root causes in organizational challenges. She shares her journey over the past year, including the launch of her book, 'Infinite Leadership,' and the eight pillars that define her leadership philosophy. The conversation also delves into the significance of setting boundaries in the workplace and the need for proactive planning to navigate future challenges effectively. Kylee emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and the impact of one's circle of influence on personal and professional growth.

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jason and Lauren discuss the new standard of leadership, emphasizing the importance of internal capabilities for effective leadership. They explore four key capabilities: self-led leadership, maintaining calm under pressure, and balancing performance with wellbeing. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to regulate their own emotions and create a supportive environment for their teams, ultimately leading to improved workplace culture and performance.

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In this episode of The Thriving Workplace Podcast, Pjero Mardesic discusses the psychology of conflict and communication, emphasizing the importance of tension in conversations and how it can lead to personal and professional growth. He introduces his Conflict to Clarity method, which guides leaders in navigating emotional responses and fostering meaningful connections in the workplace. Pjero shares his personal journey of overcoming addiction and conflict, illustrating how these experiences shaped his passion for helping others. The conversation also touches on the significance of assertiveness, the role of HR in managing emotions, and the need for a positive workplace environment.<...

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Kateesha Hembrow, a LinkedIn professional branding coach, discusses the importance of personal branding in today's professional landscape. She emphasizes that a strong personal brand serves as a safety net, opening up opportunities for individuals in various career stages. Kateesha shares insights on how to build a personal brand, the types of content to post, and the significance of overcoming imposter syndrome and negative feedback. She also introduces the concept of shadow work for self-reflection and personal growth, culminating in an invitation to her upcoming Be Known Accelerator event.

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In this episode of The Thriving Workplace Podcast, inclusion consultant Richelle Menzies discusses diversity, inclusion and accessibility in the workplace, with a focus on LGBTI communities. She shares her journey into inclusion work and highlights the importance of culturally safe environments, visibility and representation. Richelle offers practical steps organisations can take to be more inclusive, from accessibility improvements to accountability, and reflects on the growing need for awareness in the face of rising discrimination.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jason and Lauren share their experiences of juggling wedding planning with their business commitments. They discuss the importance of sticking to a vision and budget, trusting the process, enjoying the journey, and effective time management strategies. The conversation is filled with personal anecdotes and practical lessons that can be applied to both personal and organizational contexts.

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In this conversation, Sarah Gray discusses the significant impact of hormonal changes on women's mental health, particularly during identity crises. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms that may be linked to hormonal imbalances and encourages individuals to seek professional help. The discussion highlights how hormone replacement therapy can lead to transformative changes in mood and overall well-being.

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Most leaders have optimised...

In this episode of The Thriving Workplace Podcast, Jason shares his journey from teaching to co-founding WPWI with Lauren. They discuss the challenges faced in the education sector, the importance of workplace wellbeing, and how they navigate their partnership in business and life. The conversation highlights the need for recognition in the workplace, the distinction between being busy and being effective, and their exciting plans for the future of WPWI.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace Podcast, Lauren shares her personal journey with burnout and the creation of WPWI. She discusses the impact of burnout on personal and professional life, the misconceptions surrounding high performance, and the importance of stress management. The conversation emphasizes the need for organisations to prioritize wellbeing as a strategic outcome and empowers HR professionals to advocate for their teams. Lauren reflects on the achievements of WPWI and expresses excitement for future initiatives aimed at creating sustainable change in workplaces.

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In this episode, Jason and Lauren kick off the new season of the Thriving Workplace podcast, discussing their excitement for 2026 and the focus on workplace wellbeing, leadership, and organizational health. They emphasise the importance of listening to employees, being proactive in addressing workplace challenges, and the need for long-term strategies to create lasting impact. The conversation also touches on personal reflections and goals for the year ahead, highlighting the significance of self-leadership and the power of collective action in fostering a thriving workplace culture.

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In this conversation, Jennifer Jefferies shares her personal journey of overcoming health challenges, including Hashimoto's disease. She discusses her experience at a health retreat that transformed her life and led her to become a naturopath. The conversation highlights the importance of emotional and physical healing and the journey from being a patient to a health practitioner.

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Most leaders have optimised everything in their business except the...

In this episode, the conversation explores the evolving landscape of workplace wellbeing, emphasizing the shift from ad hoc initiatives to a more structured, data-driven approach. By 2026, organizations will be expected to proactively manage psychosocial risks and demonstrate their commitment to employee wellbeing through measurable strategies. Leadership capabilities in managing stress and conflict will be essential, and companies lacking a wellbeing strategy will be viewed as high-risk employers.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace Podcast, hosts Jason and Lauren welcome Pam Espin, an expert in burnout resilience and workplace wellbeing. Pam discusses the importance of creating neuroaffirming workplaces, the barriers faced by neurodivergent individuals, and the benefits of understanding and supporting employees with ADHD. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication, psychological safety, and practical strategies for both employers and employees to foster a thriving work environment.

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In this episode, Lauren and Jason talk with Steve Hodgson, founder of Beyond The Noise, about why proactive support is essential for a healthy workplace. They discuss simple tools, early interventions, and practical strategies that help organizations address employee struggles before they escalate, creating stronger, safer, and more supportive cultures where people can thrive.

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Most leaders have optimised...

In this conversation, WPWI Co-founders, Lauren McGee and Jason Marshall, explore the various archetypes of individuals who engage in difficult conversations, focusing on the traits of overthinkers and overpreparers. They discuss how these archetypes impact communication and conflict resolution, providing insights into effective strategies for navigating challenging discussions.

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In this conversation, Lauren McGee discusses the importance of mindfulness and the need for technology detox in our daily lives. He emphasizes the significance of setting aside time for self-reflection and gratitude, as well as establishing daily non-negotiables that contribute to overall well-being. These practices help individuals reconnect with their essence and regulate their nervous systems, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jason Marshall discusses the critical human needs that must be met for employees to thrive in their workplace. He emphasizes the importance of understanding these needs: certainty, variety, significance, connection, growth, and contribution, and how they impact employee engagement and retention. Leaders are encouraged to recognize the signs of unmet needs and to create a culture that fosters fulfillment through consistent rituals and open communication.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, we speak with Tracy Sedman, founder of Sexual Safety Australia, about the critical importance of addressing sexual safety in the workplace. Tracy discusses the various aspects of sexual safety, including harassment, discrimination, and the need for proactive education. She emphasizes the role of workplaces in fostering inclusive environments and the positive outcomes of workshops aimed at raising awareness and understanding. Tracy also highlights the importance of open communication and the need for organizations to address issues before they escalate, ultimately creating a safer and more productive workplace for all employees.

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jason Marshall emphasizes the importance of understanding and articulating one's 'why' in both personal and professional contexts. He shares his journey from teaching to leadership consultancy, highlighting the need for workplaces to prioritize employee wellbeing. Jason provides a framework for crafting a personal 'why' statement and encourages leaders to lead with purpose rather than volume, ultimately fostering a thriving workplace culture.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, hosts Jason Marshall and Lauren McGee speaks with Lloyd Ross, a financial education expert, about the importance of financial wellbeing and its impact on overall health and workplace performance. Lloyd defines financial wellbeing as a state where money does not negatively affect mental, physical, or emotional health. He discusses the significance of creating financial optionality, practical steps to achieve financial health, and the necessity of an emergency fund. The conversation also touches on the importance of communication in relationships regarding finances, effective time management, and the value of attention and focus...

In this episode, Jason Marshall reflects on the recent National Workplace Wellbeing Conference, discussing the significance of the event, the insights gained from keynote speakers, and the overall experience of attendees. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a supportive workplace culture, the challenges faced in organizing the conference, and the key takeaways for leaders looking to enhance employee wellbeing. Looking ahead, Jason shares plans for future conferences and emphasizes the need for continuous improvement in workplace wellbeing initiatives.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jason and Lauren discuss the critical differences between good and great workplaces, emphasizing the importance of proactive culture management. They explore how organizations often settle for mediocrity, the need to challenge traditional practices, and the significance of understanding employee needs. The conversation also addresses the importance of discussing mental health and stress in the workplace, the consequences of ignoring warning signs, and the necessity of measuring workplace culture to drive improvement.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Alana Hannaford, a design strategist and change management leader, discusses the importance of workplace design in enhancing employee wellbeing and organizational performance. She shares her journey into workplace strategy, emphasizing the need for human-centered design processes that engage employees in creating conducive work environments. Alana highlights the evolution of workplace design, the significance of biophilic design, and the impact of neuroscience on our responses to workspaces. She also provides practical tips for organizations with tight budgets and emphasizes the importance of personal wellbeing practices for professionals in the field.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Jason and Lauren discuss the critical importance of workplace culture and its financial implications for businesses in Australia. They explore the staggering costs associated with poor culture, including absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover. The conversation delves into the necessity of integrating wellbeing into business strategy, the pitfalls of short-term fixes, and the significance of aligning company values with employee values. They also highlight the detrimental effects of operating in a 'firefighting mode' and the need for leaders to prioritize strategic planning to foster a thriving workplace culture.

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In this episode of the Thriving Workplace podcast, Mia Shilkin shares her extensive experience in the Australian property market, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and strategic property investment. She discusses her journey into real estate, the transformations she has witnessed in her clients, and the common mistakes people make when investing in property. Mia also highlights the significance of reducing stress in property investment, the impact of financial security on workplace dynamics, and the potential of using superannuation for property purchases. Throughout the conversation, she encourages listeners to delegate responsibilities and focus on their strengths, ultimately leading to...

In this episode of the Thriving Workplace Podcast, Lauren dives deep into one of the most pressing challenges facing Australian workers today: burnout. Drawing from her personal journey as a former paramedic, her experience founding the Workplace Performance Wellbeing Institute, and the latest research, Lauren unpacks why burnout isn’t just an individual issue; it’s also systemic and cultural. From the dangers of the “always on” culture to the hidden costs on health, performance, and retention, Lauren reveals the five biggest causes of burnout and why simply “pushing through” only exacerbates the problem. She shares practical tools for individuals...