Can We Have a Word?

Kara Connect
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’Can We Have a Word?’ is the Kara Connect podcast hosted by CEO Tobba Vigfusdottir – because better conversations create better workplaces. In each episode, we sit down with HR leaders and other people managers to explore how open dialogue, smarter support, and fresh ideas can improve workplace wellbeing and bring out the best in people. For show notes and free bonus resources, visit www.KaraConnect.com/podcast. If you want to support your employees’ mental health and wellbeing, get in touch with Tobba and the Kara Connect team. If you’re creating a culture where conversations lead to real change, we’re here to help.

  1. 4 DAYS AGO

    Episode 14: Building Real Organisational Cultures That Support Employee Wellbeing - with Sharon O’Connor

    In this conversation, Sharon O’Connor, management consultant and workplace wellbeing specialist at Warn, joins Tobba Vigfúsdóttir for a nuanced discussion about the evolving nature of organisational culture and employee wellbeing. Sharon shares her experience guiding organisations through change, emphasising curiosity, data-led approaches, and cultural authenticity as the foundation for lasting impact on wellbeing and performance. The episode covers both practical and philosophical perspectives for HR managers and leaders seeking to cultivate supportive workplace environments. Discussion highlights: Defining a “real” workplace culture and its impact on wellbeing and performance (01:36) The value of making culture the organisation's North Star during turbulent times (02:23) How leadership understanding and buy-in set the stage for effective wellbeing initiatives (07:07) Practical starting points for HR managers without consultant support; importance of data and structured reporting (07:47) The challenge and importance of clarifying company values across global teams and cultures (10:24) Collaborative strategies for ensuring cultural relevancy and flexibility in people programs worldwide (11:30) How to address cultural or value misalignments within organisations (12:30) The common barriers to uptake of workplace wellbeing programs - visibility, comfort, and cultural acceptance (14:35) Building sustainable wellbeing strategies: integrating ongoing support, programs, and cross-functional collaboration (15:56) Internal marketing and the need for consistent communication to embed wellbeing initiatives (17:43) Measuring wellbeing using existing HR data, employee engagement surveys, and behavioural analysis (19:02) The role of language and new cultural terms in normalising workplace stress and communication (21:39) Sharon’s research with Novartis: the importance of storytelling and destigmatisation in mental health support uptake (25:02) Key findings: relatability reduces stigma and increases program engagement, outweighing concerns about trust and anonymity (28:54) Sharon’s personal wellbeing “toolbox” and reflections on the value of hobbies and free time (31:42) Final advice: approaching workplace challenges with objectivity, curiosity, and a willingness to start (34:04) For listeners interested in workplace wellbeing and organizational culture, this episode offers hands-on advice and thought-provoking perspectives. About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    38 min

  2. 29 SEPT

    Episode 13 - How to Overcome Stigma and Boost Mental Health Conversations at Work - with Martin Gillick from Bus Éireann

    In this episode, host Tobba Vigfusdottir is joined by Martin Gillick, Employee Wellbeing Manager at Bus Éireann, Ireland’s national bus company. Martin shares insights from his extensive experience supporting wellbeing in the workplace, particularly in high-pressure, male-dominated, and diverse environments.  With a workforce of approximately 3,500 people (including 42 different nationalities) and more than 25 locations, workplace wellbeing at Bus Éireann is a balancing act, combining holistic strategy, honest communication, and cultural sensitivity. Martin explains Bus Éireann’s approach to building a holistic wellbeing strategy, the importance of communication in driving engagement, and practical steps for supporting employee health, including return-to-work processes. The conversation covers challenges such as stigma around mental health - especially for men and culturally diverse staff - measuring the impact of wellbeing programs, and how to make the case for investment in employee wellbeing. In this episode: Martin’s background in workplace wellbeing and how his experiences in the military informed his approach. The structure of Bus Éireann’s “Be Well at Work” strategy and its six wellbeing pillars Why recuperation and return-to-work support are crucial but often overlooked Strategies for reintegrating employees after illness, maternity, or extended leave Addressing stigma and supporting mental health in a male-dominated, multicultural setting Implementing Mental Health First Aid across the organisation The role of communication: leveraging internal comms, wellbeing champions, and roadshows Common managerial mistakes around wellbeing and the importance of human connection Training managers to have effective supportive conversations Measuring the impact of wellbeing initiatives and what metrics matter Making the case for wellbeing investment to CFOs and linking wellbeing to business outcomes Martin’s personal wellbeing practices and thoughts on behavioural change This episode offers practical insights for HR, wellbeing leaders, and managers looking to embed meaningful support for health and wellbeing in their organisations. About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    29 min

  3. 15 SEPT

    Episode 12 - Helping HR Professionals Thrive Through Smart Planning, Boundaries, and Beating Burnout - with Fay Wallis

    In this episode, Tobba sits down with Fay Wallis, a career and executive coach with nearly a decade of experience helping HR professionals develop rewarding, sustainable careers. Fay is the founder of Bright Sky Career Coaching, the host of the HR Coffee Time podcast (ranked in the top 2% of podcasts globally), and creator of the Essential HR Planner and the Inspiring HR Leadership Development Program. In this conversation, Fay shares her unconventional journey from HR business partner to coach and how a single career development workshop transformed her purpose. She talks openly about experiences with burnout, workplace anxiety, and why she’s focused on empowering HR professionals to work smarter, not harder, while supporting wellbeing at work. Fay and Tobba dig into the realities facing HR leaders, from overwhelming workloads to the challenge of setting boundaries, and share practical advice for anyone seeking greater fulfilment in their career. Discussion highlights: Fay’s background in HR, her shift to coaching, and the step-by-step growth of her business (01:14) The pivotal moment of designing and delivering her first career management workshop - and its unexpected impact (03:13) Most common themes HR leaders bring to coaching: lack of confidence, workplace relationships, and career transitions (09:23) How burnout and anxiety shaped her approach to wellbeing and productivity (11:10) The importance of learning to say no and setting boundaries in HR (15:29) The wide-ranging responsibilities of HR professionals and the evolving scope of the HR role (15:38) The most popular and helpful HR Coffee Time podcast episodes: confidence at work and competency-based interviews (20:43) Advice for anyone considering reaching out for career support or coaching (25:28) The value of peer support, planning, and taking small, daily steps for personal and professional wellbeing (30:50) Practical signs of burnout and anxiety - and Fay’s strategies for managing wellbeing (33:18) Listen to this episode for honest insights on sustainable success, practical workplace wellbeing, and how to navigate the demands of HR leadership. Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faywallis/ Website: https://brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/ Podcast:  https://brightskycareercoaching.co.uk/hr-coffee-time-podcast/ About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    39 min

  4. 1 SEPT

    Episode 11 – Designing Effective Wellbeing Strategies in Complex Organisations, with Vivienne Horkan, Programme Manager at An Garda Síochána

    In this episode, Tobba sits down with Vivienne Horkan, an award-winning wellbeing leader and experienced HR professional, currently managing the Garda National Wellbeing Office. Vivienne shares insights from her extensive work in developing employee wellbeing, inclusion, and engagement strategies in the challenging environment of the Irish police force, An Garda Síochána. The conversation covers the creation and evolution of Garda’s health and wellbeing strategy, the launch of impactful initiatives like the KOPS app (Keeping Our People Supported App) and menopause guidance, and the important role of openness and trust in fostering a supportive workplace culture. Vivienne also discusses the practicalities of measuring wellbeing programs, navigating challenges such as management buy-in and cultural stigma, and the growing relevance of technology in workplace health initiatives. She offers experienced advice for HR managers starting out in wellbeing initiatives, reflections on generational shifts in attitudes toward mental health, and her own approaches to staying balanced. Topics Discussed: Vivienne’s role at the Garda National Wellbeing Office and the mission behind the Keeping Our People Supported (KOPS) app (00:50) Building a wellbeing strategy through health needs assessments and staff surveys (03:35) The importance of data and measurement in assessing program effectiveness (05:12) Training mental health first aid facilitators and addressing mental health stigma (07:41) Key advice for HR managers starting their own wellbeing initiatives (00:09:25) Common mistakes and challenges in implementing workplace wellbeing programs (12:56) The power of internal champions and creating a culture of openness (14:21) Launching the menopause guidance document and supporting diverse staff needs (19:29) Evolving strategy and addressing emerging themes such as the impact of social media and digital health tools (22:22) Generational differences in attitudes towards mental health support (24:30) Vivienne’s personal wellbeing practices, including the role of nature and positivity (25:51) Listen to the full episode for thoughtful insights on creating a resilient, supportive work environment, and practical steps to start your own wellbeing journey. Links: Website: https://www.garda.ie/en/about-us/our-departments/health-and-wellbeing/garda-national-wellbeing-office/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivienne-horkan-mcipd-93215b6/ Podcast: KaraConnect.com/podcast About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    30 min

  5. 25 AUG

    Episode 10 - How HR Teams Can Use AI To Improve Workplace Wellbeing - with Lorraine Hunt

    In this episode, host Tobba Vigfúsdóttir is joined by Lorraine Hunt, an expert in AI automation for HR and the founder of the AI Automation Department. Lorraine brings over thirty years of hands-on experience in HR and learning & development, with a focus on practical, people-first strategies to support a sustainable work environment. In a field flooded with admin and compliance, Lorraine has seen the workplace wellbeing benefits and the limits of AI up close. Together, they dive into the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence in HR, exploring everything from creative opportunities for streamlining admin and freeing up HR teams to focus on people, to practical ways AI can enhance workplace wellbeing. Key topics discussed in the episode include: The challenges HR faces in organizing and leveraging data, especially in the context of privacy laws and new regulations like the EU AI Act. Strategies for overcoming hesitation and fear around adopting AI in HR teams. Use cases where AI can reduce administrative workload, freeing HR to be more strategic. Real-world examples of AI supporting wellbeing, such as analysing absence data and prompting early intervention for burnout. The importance of transparency, ethics, and maintaining a human touch alongside AI-driven solutions. Approaches for anonymizing data and ensuring security while making the most of AI tools. The evolving skillsets required in HR, the changing nature of recruitment, and how AI might upend traditional hiring processes. Personal wellbeing strategies, including how Lorraine balances her enthusiasm for technology with activities that nurture her own health. Whether you’re an HR professional eager to embrace AI, a manager looking for actionable wellbeing strategies, or simply curious about the future of work, this episode offers insights, inspiration, and some honest reflections on both the potential and pitfalls of bringing AI into the workplace. Links: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lorrainehunt Website: aiautomationdept.com Podcast: KaraConnect.com/podcast About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    37 min

  6. 1 AUG

    Episode 9 - Why HR Needs Support Too: Dr. Jo Burrell on Burnout and Organizational Change

    In this episode of “Can We Have a Word?” podcast, Dr. Jo Burrell joins host Tobba Vigfúsdóttir for a thoughtful exploration of workplace wellbeing, centered on the mental health of HR professionals. Jo brings over two decades of clinical experience and is co-founder of Ultimate Resilience, a company focused on evidence-based resilience and burnout prevention at work. During the discussion, Jo shares insights from the UK’s largest survey into HR mental health, talks about her motivations, and discusses practical approaches to supporting those who are supporting everyone else in the organization. Key topics discussed in the episode include: Jo Burrell’s shift from NHS clinician to workplace mental health advocate, and what drove the change. Why HR professionals’ wellbeing is often overlooked in research, policy, and internal support structures. Alarming findings from The Age of Mental Wellbeing Report, revealing high burnout and low support. How organizational support (or lack of it) directly affects HR wellbeing, retention, and performance outcomes. The growing emotional demands of HR roles, without matching increases in resources or recognition. Supervision as a tool to support HR resilience, offering confidential space to process emotional strain. Balancing personal boundaries with systemic change, and the role of leadership and professional bodies. Practical steps HR professionals can take to protect their wellbeing and normalize open conversations. Dr. Jo Burrell’s work highlights a hidden crisis and a clear opportunity. HR professionals are often the backbone of organisational wellbeing, but their own needs have gone unacknowledged for too long. Recognition, structured support, and open conversation are vital steps for organisations that want to retain and empower this key workforce. Listen to the full Kara Connect episode with Dr. Jo Burrell for more on building resilience in HR. Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jo-burrell-04901a96/ Website: https://www.ultimateresilience.co.uk/  Report: https://www.ultimateresilience.co.uk/hr-mental-wellbeing-report   About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    31 min

  7. 2 JUL

    Episode 8 - Why HR Needs A Critical Incident Plan, Today - with Kristín Einarsdóttir Scobie

    In this episode, host Tobba Vigfúsdóttir is joined by Kristín Einarsdóttir Scobie, Chief Clinical Officer at Kara Connect. Together, they explore how individuals can be supported through their most challenging moments and why it’s essential for organisations to be prepared before a crisis unfolds. Kristín brings to the table broad expertise in occupational therapy, public health, sociology, and workplace crisis management. Day to day, she helps organizations across Europe respond to sudden traumatic workplace events - everything from the loss of a colleague to violent incidents or personal tragedies affecting individual employees. Together, Tobba and Kristín unpack the realities of handling traumatic events in the workplace, ranging from sudden deaths and accidents to personal hardships affecting a single employee. Kristín explains what constitutes a critical incident, how organizations can respond with compassion and structure, and what long-term support looks like for employees and HR managers alike. Key topics discussed in the episode include: Defining “critical incidents” in the workplace and why preparation is essential. Common scenarios HR teams face - from workplace accidents to personal losses. The immediate and ongoing support Kara Connect offers organisations in crisis. How psychological first aid and trauma-informed care are delivered after incidents. The importance of not trying to “fix” things alone - what HR managers really need during a crisis. Why normalization and empathy are key to helping employees process trauma. Typical mistakes companies make and what’s often overlooked in crisis planning. The value of continuity: what long-term support for affected teams and individuals looks like. This episode offers both a compassionate and practical lens on workplace wellbeing during times of crisis, and is especially valuable for HR professionals, managers, and those interested in organizational health. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristineinarsdottir/  Company website: https://karaconnect.com/about-us  About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    21 min

  8. 16 JUN

    Episode 7 - The Role of Leadership in Building Supportive, Thriving Work Environments - with Fiona Mullan from Bloom and Wild

    In today’s episode, Tobba Vigfusdottir is joined by Fiona Mullan, Chief People Officer at Bloom and Wild and member of the Kara Connect board. With a career spanning HR leadership roles at Bloom and Wild, Facebook (Meta), and Accenture, Fiona shares her experience in shaping workplace culture and promoting employee wellbeing. The conversation explores today’s changing workplace landscape, discussing the dual priorities of connection and flexibility, how AI is reshaping work, and practical insights on scaling organizations, supporting wellbeing, and building trust across diverse teams. Episode Highlights Fiona’s top priorities as Chief People Officer at Bloom and Wild, including the opportunities and challenges of AI, balancing connection and flexibility, and enabling change within the people team. The impact of AI on workplace dynamics and how Bloom and Wild encourages employees to experiment with new tools for operational efficiency and job satisfaction. Fiona’s approach to adapting to fast-changing technology despite a non-technical background, and the importance of HR partnering with IT. Lessons learned from scaling organizations, managing through rapid growth or integration, and why “hiring more people and working harder” isn’t the solution. Insights on handling cross-cultural dynamics, particularly Fiona’s experience with HR work in China and the importance of building trust and followership. Strategies for fostering workplace wellbeing at Bloom and Wild, from promoting belonging and flexibility to formal supports like mental health first aid and accessible counselling. Why investing in people managers is crucial for employee wellbeing and creating safe, supportive environments at work. Practical tips for new HR managers on building culture and wellbeing: engaging champions, providing quality support, and manager education. The growing need for HR professionals to be comfortable with data and analytics to measure the impact of people initiatives. Fiona’s approach to people strategy at Bloom and Wild combines curiosity about change with a steady commitment to practical wellbeing. Her advice: take the unknowns in stride, invest in people managers, and co-create a culture that balances connection with flexibility. With the right support, workplaces can help employees not just adapt to change, but genuinely thrive. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/fiona-mullan-1911356  Company website: www.bloomandwild.com  About Kara Connect Wellbeing at work begins with meeting your team’s needs on their terms. With Kara Connect's Wellbeing Hubs, your employees are free to choose from 3000+ expert practitioners to support their mental health and Wellbeing. Because when your employees feel better, your company does better. Our mission is to make it easy for your employees to manage their wellbeing through direct access to best-in-class support. Whenever they need it. Learn more at www.KaraConnect.com.

    29 min
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About

’Can We Have a Word?’ is the Kara Connect podcast hosted by CEO Tobba Vigfusdottir – because better conversations create better workplaces. In each episode, we sit down with HR leaders and other people managers to explore how open dialogue, smarter support, and fresh ideas can improve workplace wellbeing and bring out the best in people. For show notes and free bonus resources, visit www.KaraConnect.com/podcast. If you want to support your employees’ mental health and wellbeing, get in touch with Tobba and the Kara Connect team. If you’re creating a culture where conversations lead to real change, we’re here to help.

Information

  • Creator
    Kara Connect
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Can We Have a Word?