Truth, Lies and Work

Latest Episodes:

83: How to future-proof your workplace with Rory Sutherland of Ogilvy & Mather Mar 21, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to Part 1 of our in-depth exploration into the future of work.

In this episode, we dive into the transformative strategies businesses and professionals can adopt to not just survive but thrive in the ever-evolving work landscape.

Join us as we discuss the implications of flexible work arrangements, the rise of remote work, and how to adapt your office and career for the future.

With insights from industry experts and thought leaders, this series promises to equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to future-proof your work life.

Join us next time for Part 2 of "Future-proofing your Career," where we'll dive deeper into the individual's role in adapting to and capitalising on the changes in the work landscape with the amazing Isobel Berwick, from the FT's Working It podcast.

Until then, keep looking forward and prepare to adapt, evolve, and succeed.

We talk about:

The Future of the Workplace
Rory Sutherland: The Visionary Behind the Vision
Flexible Work: Myth or Future
Redefining Productivity in the Modern Workplace
Crafting the Ideal Office Space
A Deeper Dive: The Essence of Team Dynamics
The Way Forward

Resources:

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

Chapters:

00:00 Opening Remarks and Podcast Introduction

00:35 The Evolution of 'Truth, Lies, and Work' Podcast

01:47 Diving Into the Future of Work: A Two-Part Series

02:09 Introducing Rory Sutherland: A Glimpse into Ogilvy & Mather

03:15 Exploring the Future Proof Workplace with Rory Sutherland

03:55 Flexible Work: The Future or a Fleeting Trend?

10:27 Rory Sutherland's Take on Reinventing the Workplace

14:36 Ogilvy's Approach to Flexible Work

16:54 Rory's Vision for a Zoom-Based Agency

24:29 The Glamorous Life of an Ad Agency Vice Chairman in the 80s

25:22 The Stark Contrast: Office Life Then and Now

26:26 The Misallocation of Corporate Resources

27:33 The Benefits and Challenges of Flexible Working

31:19 The Productivity Debate: Quality vs. Quantity

34:11 The Importance of Team Dynamics Over Individual Brilliance

37:43 The Misguided Pursuit of Efficiency Through Technology

43:43 Rethinking Retirement: A Gradual Transition

46:08 Engage with Us: Your Thoughts on Work and Productivity

82: How to be a great leader, with Prof. John Amaechi OBE Mar 14, 2024

Show notes

Get ready for a masterclass in leadership!

This week on the podcast, we're joined by Professor John Amaechi OBE, a respected organisational psychologist, and the Leadership Transformation Expert at APS Intelligence LTD, the consultancy he founded in 2006.

Recognised as an influential thinker in HR, John is a Professor of Leadership at the University of Exeter Business School in the United Kingdom and a Fellow of the Institute of Science and Technology. He is also the author of the New York Times and the Sunday Times bestselling leadership book, The Promises of Giants.

Join the conversation, as we explore:

- The difference between management and leadership

- The myths surrounding effective leadership

- The critical role of self-awareness

- Diversity and inclusion in leadership

- The best Star Wars film and the only acceptable way to eat peanut butter

Through personal stories and a wealth of experience, John offers a fresh perspective on what makes an effective leader.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Opening Anecdote: The Truth About Honesty

00:26 Introducing the Podcast and Hosts

00:50 Event Announcement: The Watercooler in London

01:09 A Personal Appeal: The Yorkshire Tea Crisis

01:57 Special Guest Introduction: John Amaechi's Impressive Career

05:22 Defining Leadership: Insights from John Amaechi

09:54 The Misconceptions of Leadership and Personality Tests

18:58 Diving into Politics and Diversity

24:35 The Target of Inclusion: Mediocrity

25:18 Expanding the Talent Pool: The Impact of Inclusion

26:24 Leadership Void: The Abdication of Responsibility

28:25 The Power and Responsibility of Leadership

30:12 The Hardest Promise to Keep: Hoover the Landing

33:58 Personal Reflections: Growing Up as an Outlier

36:58 Self-Awareness: The Key to Effective Leadership

41:28 Star Wars and Peanut Butter: A Light-Hearted Conclusion

More from John Amaechi:

Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amaechi/

The Promises of Giants: https://www.amazon.com/Promises-Giants-John-Amaechi/dp/1529345871

APS Intelligence LTD: https://www.apsintel.com/

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

81: How to deal with angry people, with Dr Martin @TheAngerProfessor Mar 08, 2024

Show notes

Today we dive deep into the psychology of anger with Dr. Ryan Martin, also known as the Anger Professor. Dr. Martin shares his extensive research on anger, its effects, and practical strategies for managing angry people.

Join hosts Leanne Elliott, a business psychologist, and Al Elliott, a business owner, as they explore how to harness anger for positive change.

Key Points from This Episode:

The Myth of Catharsis: Dr. Martin debunks the common belief that venting anger through physical aggression is beneficial. He explains why this approach can actually increase aggression and anger in the long term.
Understanding Anger: Anger is an emotional response that can lead to a desire to lash out, but it is distinct from aggression. Dr. Martin highlights the importance of recognising anger’s role in our lives and the difference between feeling angry and acting aggressively.
The Role of Genetics and Environment: Both genetics and environmental factors, such as upbringing and social modelling, play a significant role in how individuals experience and express anger.
Gender Differences in Expressing Anger: Men and women experience anger similarly in terms of frequency and intensity, but they tend to express it differently due to societal norms and upbringing.
Strategies for Managing Anger: Dr. Martin offers practical advice on how to manage anger effectively, including preparing for potentially anger-inducing situations, reflecting on past angry encounters, and practicing non-complementary responses to de-escalate situations.
The Positive Aspects of Anger: While often viewed negatively, anger can have positive effects, such as fostering team cohesion or motivating political action, when channeled appropriately.
Dealing with Angry People: Understanding the reasons behind someone’s anger and employing empathy and strategic communication can help manage tense situations and potentially transform anger into constructive outcomes.

Episode Highlights:

[00:00:00] Dr. Ryan Martin discusses the ineffectiveness of cathartic aggression.
[00:02:01] Introduction to the episode and hosts.
[00:05:26] Dr. Ryan Martin shares his background and focus on anger research.
[00:10:46] Exploring the causes of anger and its expression.
[00:17:09] The distinction between being angry and being an angry person.
[00:22:24] Practical advice for managing personal anger and dealing with angry others.
[00:34:56] Dispelling common myths about anger and its management.
[00:37:47] Dr. Martin’s journey to becoming the Anger Professor and his use of social media to educate on anger management.

Recommended Resources:

How to Deal with Angry People by Dr. Ryan Martin - A comprehensive guide to understanding and managing anger in oneself and others.
Why We Get Mad: How to Use Your Anger for Positive Change by Dr. Ryan Martin - Explores the science of anger and how it can be a force for positive change.

Connect with Our Guest:

Follow Dr. Ryan Martin on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter @TheAngerProfessor
Visit AllTheRageScience.com for more resources on anger management and Dr. Martin’s work.

This episode sheds light on the complex emotion of anger and offers valuable insights into managing it effectively. Whether you’re dealing with your own anger or navigating challenging interactions with angry people, Dr. Ryan Martin’s expertise provides a path toward understanding and positive change.

Join us next week for another engaging episode of Truth, Lies, and Workplace Culture, where we continue to explore the science of human behaviour and how it impacts workplace culture.

80: Why Cult-Like Workplaces Are On the Rise, with Petra Velzeboer Feb 29, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode, we're joined by Petra Velzeboer, a renowned mental health expert with a unique and profound background.

Petra's journey from being raised in a notorious cult to becoming a leading voice in creating psychologically safe workspaces offers invaluable insights into understanding cult-like cultures in the corporate world.

Episode Overview:

Petra shares her extraordinary life story, detailing her upbringing in a cult and how it shaped her perspective on life and work.
Discussion on the transition from a controlled environment to the freedom and challenges of the outside world.
Exploring the characteristics of cult-like cultures in corporate settings.
How charismatic leadership can both inspire and manipulate.
The psychological tactics used in cult-like companies to bind employees.
The impact on mental health and personal identity.
Petra provides insights on recognizing red flags in a workplace.
Strategies for individuals to break free from toxic work environments.

Connect with Petra:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petra.velzeboer

LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/petra-velzeboer

Her website: https://www.petravelzeboer.com

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

79: Why Mental Health Matters: Insights from Dr. Sarah Hughes, CEO of MIND Feb 23, 2024

Show notes

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Dr. Sarah Hughes, the Chief Executive of MIND, the UK's leading mental health campaigning organisation.

With over 35 years of experience in the mental health sector, Dr. Hughes shares her journey, the evolution of mental health perceptions, and the vital work MIND is doing nationwide.

Key Highlights:

Dr. Hughes' Personal and Professional Journey in Mental Health: Insights into her 35-year career, her motivations, and her one-year anniversary as MIND's Chief Executive.
What is MIND?: An overview of MIND's impact, including its nationwide advocacy, charity shops, and service delivery.
Changing Perceptions of Mental Health: How public conversations around mental health have evolved and the challenges that remain.
Misconceptions About Mental Health: Addressing the lack of understanding around serious mental illness.
The Mental Health Act and Its Importance: Discussing the need for updates to better support individuals.
The Economic and Social Cost of Mental Ill Health: Highlighting the financial implications and the importance of early intervention.
Leadership and Lived Experience: The value of leaders sharing their personal experiences with mental health.
Generational Views on Mental Health: Debunking myths that mental health advocacy is solely a concern for younger generations.
Practical Ways Businesses Can Engage with Mental Health: How MIND supports organisations in improving workplace mental health.

For more information about Dr. Hughes and MIND's work, check out MIND's website and follow Dr. Hughes on her social media profiles.

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

78. How Resilience became toxic, with Bruce Daisley Feb 20, 2024

Show notes

In this episode we're joined by Bruce Daisley, a leading voice on work culture who challenges the conventional wisdom around resilience.

He argues that the current emphasis on individual resilience in the workplace amounts to victim-blaming and overlooks systemic issues that create stress and burnout.

Join the conversation as we explore the limitations of resilience training, the collective nature of true resilience and the role of socialisation in fostering a resilient culture. We also discuss the critical importance of managerial training in addressing workplace challenges.

Bruce's insights are not just theoretical; they are grounded in practical examples, including the transformative impact of seemingly small actions like a receptionist's initiative in a corporate setting. This episode invites listeners to rethink resilience, emphasising community, connection, and systemic change as keys to a healthier work environment.

Connect with Bruce:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucedaisley/

Website: https://www.brucedaisley.com/

Buy Bruce's book 'Fortitude': https://www.findfortitude.net/the-book

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

77: What a Transgender love story teaches us about inclusive cultures Feb 08, 2024

Show notes

In this powerful episode, we dive into the lives of Danielle and Sophie Wood, a couple who've navigated the complexities of gender transition together.

From their early days as university sweethearts through the challenges of mental health, employment changes, and societal acceptance, their story is a testament to resilience and love.

Founders of Belonging Base consultancy, they're dedicated to fostering inclusive cultures in businesses, drawing on their personal experiences and professional expertise in diversity and inclusion.

Their journey offers profound insights into belonging, identity, and the transformative power of understanding and empathy in both personal and professional realms.

Join us as we explore their remarkable journey and the impactful work they do with Belonging Base.

Key Talking Points:

- Navigating gender transition as a couple and its impact on relationships and professional life.

- The founding of Belonging Base and its mission to enhance workplace inclusivity.

- Challenges faced in the workplace and society as a transgender couple.

- The significance of LGBTQ+ month and raising awareness through personal stories.

- Mental health struggles and finding support during gender transition.

- The importance of allyship and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals.

- The role of Millennials and Gen Z in advocating for inclusivity and change in the workplace.

- Strategies for businesses to adopt more inclusive practices.

- Personal experiences with discrimination and the journey towards acceptance and belonging.

Connect with our guests:

Belonging Base on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/belonging-base

Danielle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-wood-deib-mhfa

Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-wood-mcipd

Website: https://belongingbase.com

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your mental health, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 (UK) or email jo@samaritans.org (Rest of World)

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

76: When to Say Goodbye: Ending a Partnership with Joe Fier Feb 01, 2024

Show notes

In this incredibly intimate and honest conversation with Joe Fier, co-host of the Hustle and Flowchart podcast, we delve deep into the personal and professional challenges of ending a thriving partnership.

We discuss the intricate dynamics of their partnership, how things began to unravel, and the impact it had on both of them personally and professionally.

We ask key questions like:

How do you know when a partnership isn't working?
How do you communicate your doubts and concerns?
When do you know it's time to end it?
How do you break up without damaging the business or your personal relationship?
How do you handle the public's perception of a separation in a public business?
How do you prevent a messy breakup in a business partnership?
What makes a great partnership?

Let's get stuck in!

Links & Resources

Hustle & Flowchart podcast: https://hustleandflowchart.com
Joe Fier on Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/joefier
PodHacker course for podcasters: https://podhacker.com/
Matt Wolfe on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mreflow
Matt's AI Channel on YT: https://www.youtube.com/@mreflow

Got a questions? Feedback? Gripes? Come and talk to us!

Connect with Al on LinkedIn
Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn
Join the discussion about this episode on LinkedIn
Email: podcast@TruthLiesandWork.com
Follow us on Instagram @truthlieswork
Chat with us onTwitter @truthlieswork
YouTube channel for the podcast@TruthLiesandW ork
Check us out on TikTok (LOL!!!) @truthlieswork

75. What makes your team say Yes? Exploring the Psychology of Influence with Phill Agnew Jan 25, 2024

Show notes

In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Phill Agnew, renowned for his work on the Nudge podcast.

Phill, with his rich expertise in behavioural science, delves into the intricate psychology of influence. We explore the fine line between influence and manipulation, uncovering how subtle cues and messaging impact team decision-making and motivation.

Phill provides valuable insights into creating persuasive communications that ethically sway opinions and actions. Whether you're a leader, marketer, or anyone interested in the art of influence, this episode is packed with strategies and psychological principles to understand and harness the power of 'Yes' in teams and organisations.

Key Talking Points:

The subtle dynamics of influence versus manipulation.
Techniques for ethically persuading teams and individuals.
How to craft messages that resonate and motivate.
The role of behavioural science in effective leadership and marketing.
Phil Agnew's unique perspectives from his experiences with Nudge.

Join us for an enlightening journey into the world of influence with Phill Agnew, and learn how to apply these principles for positive outcomes in your professional and personal life.

Resources:

Connect with Phill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phill-agnew-22213187/

Listen to Nudge Podcast: https://www.nudgepodcast.com/

Phill's Book Recommendations:

Tali Sharot,The Influential Mind: What the Brain Reveals About Our Power to Change Others

Chip & Dan Heath: The Power of Moments: Why Certain Experiences Have Extraordinary Impact

Uri Gneezy: Mixed Signals: How Incentives Really Work

Ayelet Fishbach: Get It Done: Surprising Lessons from the Science of Motivation

Robert Cialdini: Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion

Richard Shotton: The Illusion of Choice: 16 ½ psychological biases that influence what we buy

Richard Shotton: The Choice Factory: 25 behavioural biases that influence what we buy

Richard Chataway: The Behaviour Business: How to apply behavioural science for business success

Zoe Chance: Influence Is Your Superpower: How to Get What You Want Without Compromising Who You Are

Listen to More on Psychology at Work from Truth, Lies & Workplace Culture

Episode 51 - The Psychology of Happiness at Work

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep51-the-psychology-of-happiness-at-work_2456/

Episode 26: Personality and Family Business

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/family-business-and-personality_1921/

Episode 14: How NOT to be a Psychopath!

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/how-not-to-be-a-psychopath_1974/

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your well-being, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

74. How the Undercover Candidate exposed the shocking truth of recruitment Jan 18, 2024

Show notes

Join us in this eye-opening episode with Nora Burns, a former Fortune 200 HR leader turned undercover candidate and employee.

With a career spanning over 20 years in Human Resources, Nora shares her ground-breaking research journey, where she underwent 250 undercover job interviews and worked incognito in frontline roles at five Fortune 500 companies.

This episode sheds light on the startling recruitment practices she uncovered, many of which were unethical and illegal.

Key Talking Points:

Nora Burns' unique transition from HR leader to undercover candidate.
Insights from her extensive undercover job interviews and experiences.
Ethical implications of the recruitment practices she discovered.
The impact of these practices on candidates and workplace culture.
The necessity for a shift towards more ethical hiring practices in the corporate world.

Resources:

Connect with Nora: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noraburns/

Pre-purchase Nora's book: https://www.theleadershipexperts.com/shop

Listen to More on Discrimination at Work from Truth, Lies & Workplace Culture

34. How to identify and eliminate toxic work cultures

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/toxic-workplace-culture_1887/

32. Why understanding women’s health is vital for male leaders

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/womens-health-a-guide-for-male-leaders_1785/

41: Neurodiversity 101.

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/neurodiversity-101_2286/

Listen to More on Recruitment from Truth, Lies & Workplace Culture

3. How to Win the Fight for Talent

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/how-to-win-the-fight-for-talent_2229/

4. How to recruit for culture fit (HINT: Don’t)

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/how-to-recruit-for-culture-fit_2226/

General Support with Mental Health and Well-being

If you have been affected by any of the themes in this episode, or are currently struggling with your well-being, the following resources may be useful.

Mind website: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/

If you are feeling in distress or despair, including feelings of suicide, please do consider calling the Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: Hello@truthliesandwork.com

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/