Truth, Lies and Work

Latest Episodes:

73. Jodie Hill: How My Mental Breakdown Sparked a Movement for Healthier Law Firms Jan 11, 2024

Show notes

Jodie's story is a powerful testimony to how personal adversity can lead to transformative change in an industry resistant to it.

Jodie is a neuro-divergent solicitor, ED&I consultant, coach and trainer, author, and campaigner. A qualified barrister initially called to the Bar by The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple in 2010, Jodie cross-qualified to become a solicitor in 2013. Her mental breakdown in 2017, which she now describes as her “mental breakthrough”, led her to establish Thrive Law in 2018. It was the first law firm in the UK founded with wellbeing and mental health at its heart.

Jodie shares her experiences working in a high-pressure legal environment and how it led to her mental health struggles. She discusses the lack of support and understanding in the legal profession and her decision to leave her job for her well-being.

This pivotal moment inspired her to start Thrive Law, focusing on creating a psychologically safe and supportive work environment.

Key Talking Points:

Jodie's background and the factors leading to her mental breakdown.
The challenges faced in traditional law firms regarding mental health and support.
The founding of Thrive Law and its mission to prioritize employee well-being.
Jodie's vision of transforming legal workplace culture for the better.
Insights into how Thrive Law is different from conventional law firms in its approach and values.

Resources:

Connect with Jodie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-hill-lawyer/

Listen to More Founder Stories from Truth, Lies & Workplace Culture

Maneesh K Goyal: How 9/11 Inspired a new American Dream

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0F87fBMYryDbJdxUkSRCRn?si=06d9f9cc196842b7

Chris Savage: Why Wistia Chose Workplace Culture Over Quick Profits

https://open.spotify.com/episode/12VgKozwrh7SMPfNIMmcku?si=5167e6352faf431f

Oliver Yonchev: How the Art of Possible is Creating a Culture of Success at Flight Story

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4XNO25zAMoQvrpUfXQDjhG?si=91c0e178badb4db3

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

Support for Law Professionals with Mental Health and Well-being

If you’re in the UK, LawCare is a free, independent and confidential Helpline that provides a space to talk about anything that may be worrying you. Call on 0800 279 6888.

The American Bar Association also provides a host of mental health resources, including Lawyer Assistance Programs ( or LAPs) that provide confidential services and support to judges, lawyers and law students who facing are mental health or substance use issues.

https://www.americanbar.org/groups/lawyer_assistance/resources/covid-19--mental-health-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 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/

72. Why 2024 Is a Pivotal Year, From Gen-Z to Social Mobility (Part 2 of 2) Jan 04, 2024

Show notes

This week, we're continuing to explore what the world of work will look like in 2024.

This is Part 2 of a 2-part episode. Be sure to go back and listen to Part 1 first!

To bring you the most up to date and accurate insights, we've engaged a bumper panel of expert guests.

We're thrilled to welcome Isabel Berwick of the FT and "Working It" podcast, Mridula Pore from Peppy Health, Organisational Psychologist Professor Sir Cary Cooper, workplace health specialist Amy McKeown, Ruth Handcock, CEO of Octopus Money, and Martin Lindstrom, a New York Times bestselling author.

Join the conversation as we ask:

How will Gen Z's influence reshape the corporate world in 2024?
What unexpected cultural shifts might we witness in workplaces?
How could empathy become a key element in workplace culture?
What role will social mobility and diversity play in future leadership?
Are there any potential surprises in store for the future of work?

2024...are you ready?!

Resources:

Connect with Isabel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabel-berwick-8b4922167/

Connect with Amy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymckeownuk/

Connect with Professor Sir Cary Cooper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/professor-sir-cary-cooper-cbe-4213909/

Connect with Ruth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-handcock-71b3656/

Connect with Martin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindstromcompany/

Connect with Mridula: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mridula-pore-00568a3/

Listen to More from Truth, Lies & Workplace Culture

Our 2023 Predictions:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/2023-predictions-in-people-culture-part-1_1960/

Financial Well-being with Prof. Sir Carey Cooper

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/55-protecting-financial-well-being-amid-the-cost-of-living-crisis_2464/

The Ministry of Commonsense with Martin Lindstrom

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/59-build-a-ministry-of-common-sense-with-martin-lindstrom_2493/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

71. What Trends Will Dominate 2024's Workplaces? (Part 1 of 2) Dec 29, 2023

Show notes

This week, we're looking back at our predictions for 2023 (were we right?!) and looking ahead to 2024 asking, what trends will dominate our workplaces?

This is Part 1 of a 2-part episode so be sure to subscribe!

To bring you the most up to date and accurate insights, we've engaged a bumper panel of expert guests.

Join the conversation as we ask:

What major shifts are experts predicting for workplace environments in 2024?
How might the balance between office and remote work evolve?
What new healthcare trends could redefine employee well-being?
In what ways could financial well-being become a focus in workplaces?
What leadership styles might emerge in response to these changes?

Their diverse expertise promises an in-depth and multifaceted discussion on the future of work and culture!

Resources:

Connect with Isabel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabel-berwick-8b4922167/

Connect with Amy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymckeownuk/

Connect with Professor Sir Cary Cooper: https://www.linkedin.com/in/professor-sir-cary-cooper-cbe-4213909/

Connect with Ruth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-handcock-71b3656/

Connect with Martin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindstromcompany/

Connect with Mridula: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mridula-pore-00568a3/

Listen to More from Truth, Lies & Workplace Culture

Our 2023 Predictions:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/2023-predictions-in-people-culture-part-1_1960/

Financial Well-being with Prof. Sir Carey Cooper

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/55-protecting-financial-well-being-amid-the-cost-of-living-crisis_2464/

The Ministry of Commonsense with Martin Lindstrom

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/59-build-a-ministry-of-common-sense-with-martin-lindstrom_2493/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

70. What's the Secret to a Stress-Free Christmas? (Part 2 of 2) Dec 21, 2023

Show notes

Join us in the second part of our series focusing on individual well-being during the holidays.

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Audrey Tang, a Chartered Psychologist and Mental Health Broadcaster, and Sean Tolram, Mindfulness Programme Manager at HSBC.

We're also joined by Stuart Sandeman, a BBC Radio 1 DJ and founder of Breathpod.

Together, they explore mental fitness, stress management, and the importance of reflective practice. Discover practical tips for a more relaxed holiday season and learn about the benefits of mindfulness and breathwork in managing stress.

Whether you're a business leader or seeking personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights into maintaining well-being during the festive period.

Resources:

Connect with Sean Tolram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seantolram/

Connect with Stuart Sandeman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-sandeman-a8556b64/

Try Stuart's Breathing Exercises: https://www.instagram.com/breathpod/

Connect with Dr Audrey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-audrey-tang-59933816/

Learn more about Dr Audrey’s latest book, The Leader’s Guide to Resilience

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leaders-Guide-Wellbeing-skills-results/dp/1292457171

Check Out Dr Audrey’s Award-winning Podcast!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2051682

Listen to More on Mental Health & Wellbeing

Future of Mental Health at Work: Surprising Trends from the 6th MAD World Summit

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/61-future-of-mental-health-at-work-surprising-trends-from-the-6th-mad-world-summit_2499/

The Psychology of Happiness at Work

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

Building Resilient Workplaces: The Triple Defence Approach to Mental Health in Action

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep40-building-resilient-workplaces-the-triple-defence-approach-to-mental-health-in-action_2295/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

69. How to Keep Calm Using Mindfulness (Part 1 of 2) Dec 14, 2023

Show notes

This episode is a guide to enhancing individual well-being during the festive season.

We're joined by Chartered Psychologist, Dr Audrey Tang, and Sean Tolram, Mindfulness Programme Manager at HSBC, who discuss the benefits of mindfulness in managing holiday stress. Learn strategies to build mental resilience, handle seasonal pressures, and improve overall well-being.

Key highlights include:

Understanding mindfulness and its science-backed benefits
Practical mindfulness exercises, including breathing techniques and body scans
Strategies to increase mental resilience and handle stress during the holidays, incorporating Dr. Tang's concept of the window of tolerance
Sean Tolram's experiences at HSBC, demonstrating tangible improvements in team performance and employee well-being through mindfulness.

This episode is part one of a two-part series, offering tools and insights to foster a serene and mindful holiday season. Stay tuned for the next episode, featuring a brand new special guest, as we continue exploring the journey to mental fitness.

Resources:

Connect with Sean Tolram: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seantolram/

Connect with Dr Audrey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-audrey-tang-59933816/

Learn more about Dr Audrey’s latest book, The Leader’s Guide to Resilience

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Leaders-Guide-Wellbeing-skills-results/dp/1292457171

Check Out Dr Audrey’s Award-winning Podcast!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2051682

Listen to More on Mental Health & Wellbeing

Future of Mental Health at Work: Surprising Trends from the 6th MAD World Summit

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/61-future-of-mental-health-at-work-surprising-trends-from-the-6th-mad-world-summit_2499/

The Psychology of Happiness at Work

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

Building Resilient Workplaces: The Triple Defence Approach to Mental Health in Action

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep40-building-resilient-workplaces-the-triple-defence-approach-to-mental-health-in-action_2295/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

68: Chris Savage: Why Wistia Chose Culture Over Quick Profits Dec 08, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we're joined by Chris Savage, the innovative founder and CEO of Wistia.

From his early days studying film to building a multimillion-dollar company, Chris shares his journey with a mix of humility and wisdom. We delve into the challenges he faced starting Wistia and how setting realistic goals played a crucial role in the company's growth.

Chris emphasises the significance of a strong, positive company culture and believes in making work fun. He talks about the pivotal role of core values in decision-making, Wistia's unique approach to remote work, and the art of hiring the right people.

Key Talking Points:

Chris Savage's journey and Wistia's early challenges
The role of goal setting in business growth
Building a positive company culture
Integrating fun into the work environment
Core values in decision-making
Wistia's approach to remote work and hiring
The story behind the HBO deal decision
Wistia's current success and future plans

Tune in for an insightful conversation full of practical advice and inspiring stories. A must-listen episode for growth-focused business leaders!

Resources:

Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjsavage/

Learn more about Wistia: https://wistia.com/

Listen to Chris’ Podcast ‘Talking to Loud’: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-too-loud-with-chris-savage/id1525785118

Listen to More Founder Stories from Truth & Lies:

Stella Smith: How pirkx is Redefining Employee Benefits:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/wellbeing-and-pirkx-with-stella-smith_1894/

Maneesh K Goyal: How 9/11 Inspired a New American Dream

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/56-othered-to-empowered-maneesh-k-goyal-and-the-american-dream_2466/

Michael Girdley: How a $100m+ Founder is Revolutionising Tomorrow’s Workplace

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/64-how-a-100m-founder-is-revolutionising-tomorrows-workplace_2523/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

67: How the BBC and RSPCA handle Trauma in the Workplace Nov 30, 2023

Show notes

In this episode of "Truth Lies & Workplace Culture," we tackle the intricate and often hidden issue of workplace trauma, a subject that remains shrouded in misunderstanding and silence.

With the expertise of our special guests from the BBC and RSPCA, we explore the various forms and nuances of trauma that can permeate work environments.

Our discussion opens with a deep dive into what constitutes workplace trauma, examining not only the overt incidents but also the subtle, chronic stressors that can lead to lasting psychological impact.

We then tackle the unique challenges faced in high-pressure sectors like media and non-profit organisations, with personal insights from our guests painting a vivid picture of the reality behind the scenes.

As the conversation progresses, we delve into the critical but often overlooked signs of unrecognised trauma in the workplace, with a detailed exploration of the symptoms employees may unknowingly exhibit and the cultural factors that can contribute to a culture of silence around mental health issues.

Our guests from the BBC and RSPCA share their experiences and observations, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of how trauma can manifest in different sectors and the importance of acknowledging and addressing these issues.

This episode is not just an eye-opener but a call to action, urging a transformation in how we perceive, respond to, and prevent workplace trauma.

Resources:

BBC guide to trauma: https://www.bbc.co.uk/safety/health/mental-health/

RSPCA: https://www.rspca.org.uk/home

Why These 7 Leadership Books Require Your Attention:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/the-7-books-leaders-should-be-reading_1999/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

66. How Shake Shack & USHG are Rethinking Restaurant Culture, featuring Patti Simpson Nov 23, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of hospitality, restaurant culture, and the changing landscape of the food industry. Our guest, Patti Simpson, is a seasoned professional who has played a pivotal role in reshaping the culture and policies at Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG), the company behind iconic restaurants like Shake Shack. Join us as we ask the tough questions and explore the dynamics of an industry in transformation.

Tough Questions & Industry Transformations

Get ready for the challenging questions. We ask Patti about the decision-making processes during the pandemic, including the controversial topic of employee layoffs. We explore the reasoning behind USHG's vaccination-only policy and discuss the potential role of technology, like robots and AI, in the future of hospitality. We also address the sensitive issue of tip policies in the industry.

As the conversation unfolds, we examine the evolving landscape of restaurant culture and what it means for both employees and customers. Patti shares insights into how USHG is adapting and innovating to meet the changing needs of the industry.

Listen to witness firsthand how organisations like USHG are committed to continuous improvement.

Resources:

Union Square Hospitality Group website: https://www.ushg.com/

Find out more about USHG's Hospitality Quotient: https://hq.ushg.com/

Connect with Patti Simpson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattisimpson/

Danny Meyer's Book, Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business. https://www.harpercollins.com/products/setting-the-table-danny-meyer?variant=32122420363298

Why These 7 Leadership Books Require Your Attention:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/the-7-books-leaders-should-be-reading_1999/

How to Recruit for Culture Fit (HINT: Don't)

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

Why Women in Leadership Matters, A Case Study with MKG

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/women-in-leadership-mkg_2355/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_hIyk9KjxJQ1lZWhiaqDw

65. How to Unlock the Champion Mindset: Sports, Leadership, and Mental Health Nov 17, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of sports, leadership, and the critical aspect of mental health.

Our guests include former Premier League Football, Clarke Carlisle, and his wife, Carrie. England Rugby International, Shaughna Brown, and Single Handed Ocean Racing Sailor, Pip Hare.

Each brings a wealth of experience in elite environments and how training a champion mindset is critical to success - in sports, leadership and life.

Join the conversation as we explore various facets of the champion mindset, covering topics such as building resilience and the telltale signs that indicate when you might be struggling.

Our conversation al delves into the differences in communication styles, particularly when transitioning from the sports field to leadership roles in the workplace.

Finally, our discussion centers around the crucial issue of women in sports and the ongoing journey towards equality in the field, before examining what it means to be a leader, drawing from our guest's extensive experience and knowledge.

Join us in this engaging conversation as we uncover the keys to unlocking the champion mindset, all while emphasising the vital importance of mental health in sports, leadership, and life.

Resources:

Follow Clarke & Carrie Carlisle:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarke-carlisle-and-carrie-carlisle-765aa749/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarkeandcarriecarlisle/

Follow Shaughna Brown:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaunaghbrown/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shaunaghbrown?lang=en

Follow Pip Hare

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pip-hare-ocean-racing-87901617/

Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/piphareoceanracing/?hl=en

Listen back to more Elite Athletes on Truth & Lies, including

Former Premier League Footballer, Ryan Briggs, chatting Financial Well-being

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/55-protecting-financial-well-being-amid-the-cost-of-living-crisis_2464/

7-time Dublin GAA Winner, Bernard Brogan, on Founding PepTalk

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep48-from-champion-to-entrepreneur-with-bernard-brogan_2445/

How Sports Psychology Coined The Superstar Effect:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/superstar-hires-silent-culture-killers_1899/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

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/

WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE!

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_hIyk9KjxJQ1lZWhiaqDw

64: Michael Girdley: How a $100m+ Founder is Revolutionising Tomorrow's Workplace Nov 16, 2023

Show notes

The Future of Work and Building Businesses with Michael Girdley

In this episode, Al talks to Michael Girdley about the future of work, the importance of integrity and loyalty, and the impact of technology on employment.

They also discuss the role of generational differences in the workplace, the value of learning how to learn, and the potential of large language models.

Michael shares personal stories and insights from his experience as a leader and entrepreneur, providing valuable advice and perspectives on various topics.