Work And Wellbeing

In this thought-provoking episode, we explore the complex concept of kindness at work with Rob Briner, Professor of Organisational Psychology at Queen Mary University of London and Associate Research Director at the Corporate Research Forum. Rob challenges assumptions about kindness in the workplace, questioning whether it’s truly the solution to wellbeing issues or simply another management buzzw...

In honour of National Suicide Prevention Week, Jeremy O'Dwyer, a Lived Experience Speaker and Trainer in Suicide and Mental Health Awareness, joins Eileen for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about suicide. Jeremy shares his own journey through loneliness, depression, and a suicide attempt, offering a rare and honest insight into the mind of someone experiencing profound emotional p...

Jenni Cole, Mental Health First Aid Instructor and wellbeing trainer, joins Eileen to explore the art of helpful communication in leadership. With a background in education and psychology, Jenni specialises in helping leaders move beyond transactional conversations to build genuine psychological safety. In this episode, Jenni reveals why so much workplace communication becomes purely goal-driven a...

Mike Maxted is Risk and Compliance Manager at Interfloor, where he oversees health, safety, environment, and facilities for a company that manufactures carpet underlay sold across 70+ countries. With a background in chemistry and chemical engineering, Mike brings a unique perspective to workplace wellbeing by combining technical expertise with deep understanding of human factors. His journey demon...

For years, we've been told that empathy and compassion are "soft skills" - nice to have, but not essential for getting results. But what if the latest research is completely turning that assumption on its head? In this episode, Eileen explores the fascinating science behind compassionate leadership and why it's becoming a competitive advantage. Key Insights and Takeaways   • Lead...

Matt Wilson is UK Wellbeing Lead at Computacenter, bringing a deeply personal understanding of workplace inclusion and mental health. Matt's journey from hiding a childhood stammer to becoming a passionate advocate for workplace wellbeing demonstrates the transformative power of finding purpose in work that aligns with your values. His experience spans volunteering with the Samaritans, implementin...

The Johari Window isn't just a 1950s psychology exercise - it's one of the most powerful tools for understanding workplace dynamics and team effectiveness. In this episode, Eileen explores the fascinating research behind this simple four-quadrant model and its profound implications for workplace wellbeing. Key Insights and Takeaways   • Only 10-15% of people are truly self-aware - meaning...

Antony Taylor is Co-founder of QR Consulting, working with organisations across multiple sectors including social housing to help HR and wellbeing teams take a people-first, data-led approach to workplace challenges. Antony brings expertise in mental toughness assessment and development, using evidence-based tools to help individuals and teams thrive under pressure. Key Insights and Takeaways   •...

In this episode of The Research Says, Eileen explores the fascinating world of hidden workplace wellbeing data inspired by her conversation with Louise Cashman at Mott MacDonald. Key Discoveries: Sporadic absences predict mental health episodes 73% more accurately than total sick days Email response patterns change weeks before people report feeling overwhelmed Calendar density changes predict str...

Louise Cashman is a business psychologist and Wellbeing Manager for Mott MacDonald, currently completing her occupational psychology chartership. She brings a unique perspective combining psychological rigour with data-driven approaches to workplace wellbeing. HIGHLIGHTS & KEY INSIGHTS: 02:00 - Shift from reactive pandemic response to proactive, preventative wellbeing strategy 04:00 - Three ke...

In this episode of "The Research Says," Eileen explores the fascinating science behind why most training fails and what actually makes learning stick. Drawing from cutting-edge research and insights from Rebecca Wheaton at Cadent Gas, this episode reveals why experiential learning isn't just more effective - it's the key to transforming workplace conversations and building genuine confidence. What...

Rebecca Eaton is Head of Occupational Health and Wellbeing at Cadent Gas, bringing over 30 years of experience in occupational health and wellbeing. She leads wellbeing initiatives in a high-risk, male-dominated industry where over 70% of operational roles are filled by men who transport gas across the UK. Rebecca is passionate about creating psychological safety and has implemented innovative tra...

In this episode of "The Research Says," Eileen explores the fascinating science behind reflection and its profound impact on workplace wellbeing. Drawing from recent research and insights from health and wellbeing manager Michael Fitzgibbon at Balfour Beatty, this episode reveals why taking time to pause and reflect isn't just philosophical - it's biologically essential for mental health and perfo...

Michael Fitzgibbon is Health and Wellbeing Manager for Balfour Beatty Power Transmission & Distribution in Scotland. He brings a unique perspective combining 10 years of military service in 2,9 Commando with 13 years in the construction industry, having worked as an overhead linesman before transitioning into safety and wellbeing leadership. KEY INSIGHTS:  [02:30] Military training's 4 wel...

Hello, and welcome to the Work and Wellbeing Podcast. I'm Eileen Donnelly, and I'm passionate about creating healthier, more supportive workplaces where people can thrive. With 20 years of experience in workplace wellbeing, I've seen firsthand how the right wellbeing strategies can transform organisations, and how the wrong approaches can waste valuable resources whilst leaving employees no better...