The Guy Osmond Podcast

Guy Osmond
The Guy Osmond Podcast

Guy Osmond has been in business for nearly 50 years and active with social media, blogs and newsletters since they came into being. He is much later to the party with this podcast. It exists because he wanted a public platform where he could engage in lively discussions about important topics chosen by people with an enthusiastic commitment to, or interest in, the subject. The core themes are diversity, inclusion and wellbeing but expect the conversations to range widely over both work and domestic issues.

  1. Designing for everyone: it's good sense to think about the senses

    FEB 3

    Designing for everyone: it's good sense to think about the senses

    With a background in workplace design and neurodiversity consultancy, Debbie and Hayley collaborate to create inclusive workplaces. This process consolidates their personal experience and professional training. This podcast explores corporate thinking (joined-up or not?) and business attitudes to Equity, Diversity & Inclusion with a particular focus on neurodiversity. Since the pandemic, many individuals have realised the benefits of homeworking and the distractions when returning to the office. However, the culture and management of many employers are not ready to meet these needs. Where senior management encourages diversity, we explore design possibilities for an inclusive workplace, especially in addressing acoustics and quiet zones. In particular, our guests discuss recent successes in the education sector, where ideas to impact the student experience could be directly applied to offices or retail settings. The wide-ranging conversation provides both personal and objective insights into the need to provide an inclusive workplace that meets legislative obligations and provides all personnel with an environment that meets their physical, sensory, and cognitive requirements. Debbie Watts Co-Founder of ZoneND - With over 35 years of expertise in commercial interior design, Debbie is dedicated to creating innovative and functional spaces. As the Director of Ashlar ID since its establishment in 2007, she has led numerous projects with a keen eye for detail and a passion for creating inspiring environments. Debbie brings over 20 years of lived experience in neurodiversity, deeply understanding the importance of inclusive design principles. Her extensive background uniquely positions her to integrate neurodiversity considerations seamlessly into her designs, ensuring spaces that are welcoming and accessible to all. Hayley O'Connor - Co–Founder of ZoneND,  is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and brings over a decade of experience in sensory processing, autism, and ADHD to her work. As a neurodivergent lived experience expert, she offers a unique perspective shaped by her journey and challenges. With a background as a neurodiversity consultant and SEND mentor, Hayley applies her expertise to guide and support others navigating similar paths. She seamlessly integrates the neurodivergent lens into all aspects of the design process, ensuring inclusive and accommodating environments for all individuals.

    46 min
  2. Designing an Enticing Office. We know what works: why don’t we do it?

    JAN 6

    Designing an Enticing Office. We know what works: why don’t we do it?

    Welcome to my insightful podcast episode featuring the brilliant Nigel Oseland. A compelling discussion where Nigel and I examine the future of workspaces—balancing the home office and the traditional office environment. Nigel, alongside my thoughts, navigates the pros and cons of working from home versus the office, touching on crucial aspects like productivity, creativity, and that ever-elusive work-life balance. We delve into the necessity for physical offices in the modern age, the impact of hybrid working, and the evolution of both workplaces and work habits post-COVID. Hear about personal experiences and expert opinions mixed with a bit of humour as we share why some prefer solitude and others need office life. Join us for a thought-provoking journey where we question how to make workplaces more inviting, the importance of providing a sense of belonging, and the essential role of well-designed spaces in creating collaboration and innovation. You'll also learn about the hidden challenges of managing hybrid teams and the overlooked skills required for effective management in this new era.Whether you're an advocate of the home office or a staunch supporter of traditional workspaces, this podcast offers a balanced view sprinkled with enlightening anecdotes and practical insights. Don’t miss this episode if you're eager to understand what the future holds for our workplaces and how to navigate the shifting dynamics of work life. Related Blog The Enticing Workplace: Attracting People Back to the Office By Nigel Oseland and Gary Raw In partnership with MillerKnoll, Workplace Trends and Audiem (see https://bit.ly/46q8Iyk ) explores what factors influence preferences around place of work. This report was then the touchstone for a discussion by an expert panel, which included the two authors, reported at length in an In Magazine supplement  (see https://bit.ly/3YleNdz ).

    47 min
  3. Opportunities & expectations: design for wellbeing in the 2020s

    10/07/2024

    Opportunities & expectations: design for wellbeing in the 2020s

    In this insightful episode, we are joined by Kirsty Angerer, famously known as the Travelling Ergonomist, to delve into the dynamic world of workplace trends and innovations. Kirsty has observed a significant transformation in workplace ergonomics over the last five years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. We explore how employees adapted to home office setups and the evolving responsibilities between employers and employees for well-being and equipment.  We also dissect the complexities of designing effective hybrid workplaces, using Amazon's real estate decisions as a case study, and discuss the importance of creating compelling office environments to attract employees. This includes integrating cutting-edge technology, AI, and convenient amenities. Furthermore, we highlight innovative workplace adaptations that boost productivity, particularly for neurodivergent individuals, and discuss the role of leadership in promoting well-being initiatives. Join us for an engaging conversation filled with expert insights, practical advice, and a look into the future of workplace design.  Highlight Timestamps: - (0:00:00) - Evolution of Workplace Trends: Introduction to Kirsty Angerer and the significant shifts in workplace ergonomics over the past five years, mainly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. (0:14:42) - Designing Effective Hybrid Workplaces: Analysis of Amazon's real estate decisions and the importance of creating compelling office environments in a post-pandemic world. (0:20:04) - Innovative Workplace Adaptations for Productivity: The benefits and challenges of working from home, especially for neurodivergent individuals, and the evolving office landscape. (0:23:39) - Workplace Design and Well-Being Priorities: Importance of air quality, natural light, noise management, and inclusive design for employee well-being and productivity. (0:32:37) - Importance of Leadership in Workplace Well-Being: The role of senior management in promoting well-being initiatives and the impact of leadership on productivity. (0:42:24) - Engaging Interview Dynamic: A refreshing exchange between Kirsty and Guy, showcasing their camaraderie and mutual respect. About our guest: Kirsty has spent over ten years working Internationally in the Workplace & Real Estate sectors. Most recently, I as Development Director at Leesman, the world leader in measuring and analysing employees' experiences in their places of work. She is a Certified Professional Ergonomist (CPE), a Fitwel Ambassador, and an active member of the WELL community, demonstrating her commitment to enhancing people's health and optimising their performance through evidence-based design and policy interventions. She leverages her deep understanding of the interactions among humans and the ecosystems of workplaces to equip executives at all levels to make informed, forward-thinking decisions that allow them to mitigate risk, plan for the future, and benefit from excellent employee workplace experience.

    43 min
  4. Looking Back Over My Shoulder - Lessons Learned From Episodes 1 - 10

    09/02/2024

    Looking Back Over My Shoulder - Lessons Learned From Episodes 1 - 10

    Join us in this engaging retrospective episode as we delve into the hidden dynamics between C-suite executives and the rest of the organisation that could be holding your company back. Producer Graham Coath sits down with host Guy Osmond to revisit some of our most impactful episodes with industry leaders offering insights into the challenges of modern work and tackling issues such as maintaining company culture in a remote work environment and the pressures faced by middle management. Explore the transformative potential of technology as we discuss how wearable devices and AI can enhance productivity and accessibility. Discover real-world stories, including lessons from the oil industry, that highlight the importance of adapting technology and mandates to local needs. Our conversation also covers the evolving landscape of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), with a special focus on neurodiversity and aligning personal values with organisational culture. We share personal anecdotes and practical examples that underscore the benefits of psychometric profiling and the importance of transparency and accountability in the workplace. Wrapping up, we emphasise the need for engaging and disruptive strategies to drive meaningful change and tease some exciting topics and potential guests for future episodes. Don’t miss this opportunity to reflect on our journey and look forward with us. 0:00:00 - C-Suite Disconnect and Middle Management Pressure Reflective discussion with Graham Coath on the disconnect between C-suite executives and the rest of the organisation. (12 Minutes) 0:11:35 - Global Rollouts and Technology Benefits Insights into the challenges and potential solutions in global organisational rollouts and the role of technology. (7 Minutes) 0:19:02 - Equity, Diversity, and Neurodiversity in Organisations Exploring the evolution and importance of EDI, with a focus on neurodiversity. (5 Minutes) 0:24:23 - Aligning Personal Values With Organisational Culture The application and benefits of psychometric profiling and the importance of aligning company culture with individual values. (9 Minutes) 0:33:27 - Impact of Transparency and Technology The importance of transparency and accountability in business, and the challenges of managing data and technology. (12 Minutes) 0:45:17 - Workplace Strategy and Organisational Disruption The need for engaging disruptive strategies and effective corporate communications. (8 Minutes) 0:53:09 - Podcast Guests and Research Challenges Highlighting the merits of Chris’s book and discussing the challenges of engaging with researchers. (5 Minutes) Tune in for a thought-provoking retrospective that explores the intricate dynamics within modern workplaces and the transformative potential of technology and EDI initiatives.

    59 min

About

Guy Osmond has been in business for nearly 50 years and active with social media, blogs and newsletters since they came into being. He is much later to the party with this podcast. It exists because he wanted a public platform where he could engage in lively discussions about important topics chosen by people with an enthusiastic commitment to, or interest in, the subject. The core themes are diversity, inclusion and wellbeing but expect the conversations to range widely over both work and domestic issues.

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