The In- Between Life

Gaurvi
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In Between Life explores leadership, workplace culture, employee experience, and belonging through the lens of lived experience and evidence-based research. Hosted by Gaurvi—a former entrepreneur, pastry chef, and skilled migrant in Australia—the podcast examines communication, diversity and inclusion, psychological safety, organisational culture, and the future of work. Whether you're a leader, HR professional, student, migrant, or simply passionate about better workplaces, each episode offers practical insights for building cultures where people and organisations thrive.

  1. Aug 10

    Episode 20 - The Confidence Gap: Why Talented People Stay Quiet at Work

    Is it a lack of confidence—or is there something much deeper happening? In this episode of In Between Life, I explore why highly capable people often hesitate to speak up in meetings, share ideas, ask questions, or apply for opportunities. Drawing from my own experience as a skilled migrant and pastry chef in Australia, I reflect on how moving countries, adapting to a new culture, and rebuilding a career can quietly affect confidence and our sense of belonging. We also examine how confidence is shaped by culture. In many Asian cultures, listening before speaking, respecting hierarchy, and avoiding public disagreement are signs of professionalism and respect. In Australian and many Western workplaces, however, confidence is often expressed through participation, questioning ideas, and open discussion. These different cultural expectations can easily lead to misunderstandings if leaders aren't aware of them. Using research from Amy Edmondson, Albert Bandura, Susan Cain, Erin Meyer, Geert Hofstede, Carol Dweck, Adam Grant, and Google's Project Aristotle, we explore why psychological safety—not personality—is often the key to unlocking innovation and high-performing teams. This episode also discusses the imposter phenomenon, why even successful people such as Michelle Obama, Maya Angelou, and Tom Hanks have spoken openly about self-doubt, and what both employees and leaders can do to build confidence without pretending to be someone they're not. • Why talented employees stay quiet at work • Psychological safety and Google's Project Aristotle • Cultural differences in confidence and communication • Respect, hierarchy, and speaking up across cultures • The imposter phenomenon and self-doubt • Self-efficacy and building confidence through experience • Leadership strategies for creating inclusive, high-performing teams • Practical ways to find your voice at work Whether you're a migrant, international student, leader, manager, or someone trying to build confidence in your career, this conversation is a reminder that your voice matters—and great workplaces are built when everyone feels safe enough to use it. 🎙️ If you enjoyed this episode, follow In Between Life, leave a rating, and share it with someone who's learning to find their voice at work. Bandura, A. (1997). Self-Efficacy: The Exercise of Control. W. H. Freeman. Cain, S. (2012). Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking. Crown. Clance, P. R., & Imes, S. A. (1978). The Impostor Phenomenon in High Achieving Women: Dynamics and Therapeutic Intervention. Psychotherapy: Theory, Research & Practice, 15(3), 241–247. Duhigg, C. (2016). What Google Learned from Its Quest to Build the Perfect Team. The New York Times Magazine. Edmondson, A. C. (1999). Psychological Safety and Learning Behavior in Work Teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350–383. Edmondson, A. C. (2018). The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth. Wiley. Grant, A. (2013). Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success. Viking. Grant, A. (2016). Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World. Viking. Meyer, E. (2014). The Culture Map: Breaking Through the Invisible Boundaries of Global Business. PublicAffairs. Dweck, C. S. (2006). Mindset: The New Psychology of Success. Random House. Aurelius, M. (Trans. Gregory Hays). (2002). Meditations. Modern Library.

    Episode 20 - The Confidence Gap: Why Talented People Stay Quiet at Work

  2. Jul 27

    Episode 19 - The Identity Shift: Who Do You Become When You Start Over?

    Moving to a new country changes more than your address—it can change how you see yourself. In this episode of In Between Life, I explore the hidden psychological journey many skilled migrants, international students, and professionals experience after starting over in Australia. Why do confident, experienced people suddenly question their abilities? Why do so many migrants feel like beginners again, even after years of success? Drawing on my own experience as an immigrant pastry chef in Melbourne, I reflect on rebuilding confidence, adapting to a new workplace, navigating language and cultural differences, and discovering a new sense of belonging. This episode also explores the psychology behind identity transition through the work of William Bridges, Albert Bandura, Amy Edmondson, and John Berry, alongside reflections from Marcus Aurelius on resilience and personal growth. We also discuss the imposter phenomenon, why it can emerge during major life transitions, and practical ways individuals and leaders can support confidence, inclusion, and psychological safety. Whether you're a migrant, career changer, leader, or simply navigating a season of change, this conversation is a reminder that you're not starting from scratch—you’re building on everything you've already experienced. Identity shifts after migrationStarting over in a new country and workplaceLanguage barriers and cultural adaptationThe psychology of confidence and self-efficacyThe imposter phenomenon and why it happensPsychological safety and inclusive leadershipMarcus Aurelius and Stoic philosophy for modern lifePractical strategies to rebuild confidence and belongingIf this episode resonates with you, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who's navigating change. Every conversation helps build a more inclusive understanding of migration, leadership, and the future of work.

    Episode 19 - The Identity Shift: Who Do You Become When You Start Over?

  3. Jul 12

    Episode 18 - Belonging at Work: Why Diversity Without Inclusion Doesn't Work

    What makes someone truly feel like they belong at work? In this episode of In Between Life, I explore why diversity alone isn't enough—and why belonging has become one of the most important leadership challenges facing organisations today. Drawing on my own journey from India to France and now Australia, I share how small moments of inclusion—from being invited to my first AFL game at the MCG to finding my place in multicultural workplaces—changed my experience far more than any policy ever could. We explore: • The difference between diversity, inclusion and belonging• Why psychological safety drives innovation and performance• Cross-cultural communication in modern workplaces• How Australia's multicultural workforce is changing leadership• What organisations can learn from migrant experiences• The growing cultural connections between Australia and India through work, education and sport• Practical ways leaders can build workplaces where people genuinely belong This episode also marks the launch of The Leadership Notebook—a new companion series on Instagram where I share research, reflections, practical leadership lessons, and workplace insights inspired by each episode. @Inbetweenlifewithgaurvi - INSTAGRAM Whether you're a leader, HR professional, student, migrant, manager, or simply passionate about building better workplaces, this conversation is for you. Because diversity gets people through the door. Belonging makes them stay. 🎙️ Follow In Between Life for evidence-based conversations on leadership, workplace culture, communication, employee experience, and belonging.

    Episode 18 - Belonging at Work: Why Diversity Without Inclusion Doesn't Work

  4. Jun 28

    Episode 17- Why Good Employees Leave: It's Rarely About the Money

    Why do talented, hardworking employees leave organisations they once loved? Is it really about salary—or is something deeper happening? In this episode of In Between Life, I explore one of the biggest challenges facing organisations today: retaining great people. Drawing on leadership research, organisational psychology, and my own experiences working across hospitality in India, France, and Australia, I discuss why employees leave, how workplace culture influences retention, and what leaders can learn before it's too late. We explore: • Why people often leave managers—not just jobs • The role of psychological safety in high-performing teams • Why recognition matters more than many organisations realise • Career development and employee growth • The hidden cost of burnout and disengagement • Employee experience and organisational culture • Diversity, inclusion and belonging in multicultural workplaces • Why "stay interviews" may be more valuable than exit interviews Whether you're a leader, manager, HR professional, hospitality worker, healthcare professional, consultant, student, or someone building a career, this episode offers practical insights into creating workplaces where people feel trusted, valued, and motivated to stay. Because people may join organisations for opportunity. But they stay because of leadership. 🎙️ Follow In Between Life for conversations on leadership, workplace culture, employee experience, communication, diversity & inclusion, and the future of work. REFERENCES- Bersin, J. (2024). The Definitive Guide to Employee Experience. The Josh Bersin Company. Deloitte. (2025). 2025 Gen Z and Millennial Survey. Deloitte Insights. Edmondson, A. C. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350–383. https://doi.org/10.2307/2666999 Edmondson, A. C. (2018). The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth. John Wiley & Sons. Gallup. (2024). State of the Global Workplace 2024 Report. Gallup. Gallup. (2023). Manager Development: The Missing Link in Employee Retention. Gallup Workplace. Kahn, W. A. (1990). Psychological conditions of personal engagement and disengagement at work. Academy of Management Journal, 33(4), 692–724. https://doi.org/10.2307/256287 Pink, D. H. (2009). Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. Riverhead Books. Robbins, S. P., & Judge, T. A. (2022). Organizational Behavior (19th ed.). Pearson. Schein, E. H., & Schein, P. A. (2021). Organizational Culture and Leadership (6th ed.). Wiley. Shore, L. M., Cleveland, J. N., & Sanchez, D. (2018). Inclusive workplaces: A review and model. Human Resource Management Review, 28(2), 176–189. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrmr.2017.07.003

    Episode 17- Why Good Employees Leave: It's Rarely About the Money

  5. Jun 19

    Episode 16 -Micromanagers, Control Freaks & The Future of Leadership

    Micromanagers, Control Freaks & The Future of Leadership | In Between Life What happens when leadership becomes control? In this episode of In Between Life, I explore one of the most common workplace experiences across industries: micromanagement. From hospitality kitchens and healthcare teams to universities, government departments, technology companies, and global consulting firms, many employees have worked with leaders who struggle to let go, trust their teams, or empower people to make decisions. But what does micromanagement actually cost organisations? Drawing on leadership research, workplace culture studies, diversity and inclusion principles, and my own experience as a migrant professional working in Australia, I examine how excessive control impacts employee experience, psychological safety, innovation, engagement, and retention. We also explore: ✅ Why micromanagement happens ✅ The difference between leadership and control ✅ Psychological safety and high-performing teams ✅ Diversity, inclusion and trust in multicultural workplaces ✅ Why Gen Z is challenging traditional leadership models ✅ Employee experience and the future of work ✅ How organisations can build cultures of accountability without creating fear Whether you're a manager, team leader, business owner, student, migrant professional, hospitality worker, or someone interested in workplace culture, this episode offers practical insights into what modern leadership looks like in an increasingly diverse and connected world. Because inclusion isn't just about being hired. It's about being trusted. 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation. Edmondson, A.C. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350–383. https://doi.org/10.2307/2666999 Edmondson, A.C. (2018). The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth. John Wiley & Sons. Hofstede, G. (2001). Culture's Consequences: Comparing Values, Behaviors, Institutions and Organizations Across Nations (2nd ed.). Sage Publications. Hofstede, G., Hofstede, G.J. & Minkov, M. (2010). Cultures and Organizations: Software of the Mind (3rd ed.). McGraw-Hill. Deci, E.L. & Ryan, R.M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behaviour. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268. https://doi.org/10.1207/S15327965PLI1104_01 Pink, D.H. (2009). Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. Riverhead Books. Goleman, D. (2000). Leadership that gets results. Harvard Business Review, 78(2), 78–90. Bass, B.M. & Riggio, R.E. (2006). Transformational Leadership (2nd ed.). Psychology Press. Schein, E.H. & Schein, P.A. (2021). Organizational Culture and Leadership (6th ed.). Wiley. Robbins, S.P. & Judge, T.A. (2022). Organizational Behavior (19th ed.). Pearson. Kahn, W.A. (1990). Psychological conditions of personal engagement and disengagement at work. Academy of Management Journal, 33(4), 692–724. https://doi.org/10.2307/256287 Shore, L.M., Cleveland, J.N. & Sanchez, D. (2018). Inclusive workplaces: A review and model. Human Resource Management Review, 28(2), 176–189. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.hrmr.2017.07.003 Deloitte. (2025). Gen Z and Millennial Survey 2025. Deloitte Insights. Gallup. (2024). State of the Global Workplace Report 2024. Gallup. Australian Human Rights Commission. (2023). Leading for Change: A Blueprint for Cultural Diversity and Inclusive Leadership Revisited. Australian Human Rights Commission. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). (2024). Australia's Population by Country of Birth. #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeExperience #DiversityAndInclusion #PsychologicalSafety #FutureOfWork #InternalCommunications #LearningAndDevelopment #OrganisationalCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #HospitalityLeadership #SkilledMigrants #Australia #InBetweenLife

    Episode 16 -Micromanagers, Control Freaks & The Future of Leadership

  6. May 31

    Episode 15: Individualism vs Community – What Living in Australia Taught Me About Belonging

    Why do so many immigrants feel caught between two worlds? In this episode of In Between Life, I explore one of the biggest cultural differences I've observed living in Australia: the contrast between Western individualism and Eastern community-based values. Growing up with strong family and community connections and then moving to Australia, I found myself navigating two very different ideas of what it means to live a successful and meaningful life. Drawing on scholarly research, cultural psychology, migration studies, and personal experiences as an immigrant and hospitality professional in Melbourne, I discuss: • Individualism vs collectivism explained• Why Australia and many Western societies value independence and personal choice• The strengths and challenges of community-centred cultures• Loneliness, belonging, and social connection in modern society• How migration changes identity and cultural values• The role of culture in workplaces, leadership, relationships, and family life• What multicultural Australia can teach us about balancing freedom and connection• How global migration and modern geopolitics are reshaping cultural identity This is not a debate about which culture is better. It's a conversation about understanding different ways of living, building empathy across cultures, and finding belonging in an increasingly interconnected world. If you're an immigrant, international student, multicultural professional, hospitality worker, or simply curious about culture and identity, this episode is for you. 🎙️ Subscribe to In Between Life for conversations about migration, identity, belonging, leadership, multicultural Australia, hospitality careers, and life between cultures. References- Geert Hofstede (1980, 2001) – Culture's Consequences.Harry Triandis (1995) – Individualism and Collectivism.Robert Putnam (2000) – Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community.Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development reports on social connection and well-being.Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports on loneliness, social isolation, and mental well-being in Australia.United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs international migration statistics.#MulticulturalAustralia #ImmigrantStories #CulturalIdentity #Migration #Belonging #Individualism #Collectivism #AustralianCulture #Leadership #DiversityAndInclusion #HospitalityIndustry #InternationalStudents #LifeInAustralia

    Episode 15: Individualism vs Community – What Living in Australia Taught Me About Belonging

  7. May 19

    Episode 14 - Multicultural Australia “The Invisible Labour of Cultural Integration”

    What does it actually mean to integrate into another culture? In this episode of In Between Life, I explore the invisible emotional labour of cultural integration in multicultural Australia — beyond visas, jobs, and surface-level success. As immigrants, international students, and skilled migrants build new lives abroad, many face challenges that are rarely discussed openly: loneliness and belongingworkplace culture differencesdating and relationships across culturesidentity shifts after migrationfriendships as adults in a new countrybalancing cultural roots with adaptationcommunication styles, confidence, and emotional expressionDrawing from personal experiences as an immigrant in Melbourne, along with research on multicultural Australia, this episode explores how migration impacts people socially, emotionally, professionally, and psychologically. Whether you’re an immigrant, expat, international student, first-generation Australian, or someone navigating cross-cultural relationships and workplaces, this conversation will resonate deeply. 🎧 Listen now on Spotify & Apple Podcasts. This episode draws from research and reports on multiculturalism, migration, workplace integration, social cohesion, and immigrant belonging in Australia. Andrew Markus — Mapping Social Cohesion: The Scanlon Foundation Surveys (Monash University)Examines multiculturalism, belonging, discrimination, and Australian attitudes toward immigration. Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) — Acceptance of DiversityResearch on immigration, multiculturalism, language diversity, and social cohesion in Australia. Scanlon Foundation Research Institute — Migrants’ Sense of Belonging Study 2025Explores belonging, community participation, discrimination, and identity formation among migrants in Australia. Nguyen, T. (2019) — Working Together with Difference in an Australian Multicultural WorkplaceResearch on intercultural relationships, workplace diversity, and social integration in Australian workplaces. Nguyen & Velayutham (2017) — Everyday Inter-Ethnic Tensions and Discomfort in a Culturally Diverse Australian WorkplaceExamines communication challenges, workplace discomfort, and intercultural interactions in multicultural organisations. Kaushik, Walsh & Haefele — Social Integration of Immigrants within the Linguistically Diverse WorkplaceSystematic review on language barriers, accent discrimination, workplace inclusion, and immigrant social integration. Lu, Samaratunge & Härtel — Acculturation Attitudes and Workgroup Commitment among Professional Chinese Immigrants in AustraliaResearch on workplace belonging, acculturation, and immigrant employee integration. Liu et al. (2023) — Coping Strategies for Work and Cultural Stressors in Multicultural Construction WorkplacesDiscusses intercultural stress, mental health, and coping mechanisms in Australian multicultural workplaces. Discusses intercultural stress, mental health, and coping mechanisms in Australian multicultural workplaces. Topics discussed: multicultural Australia, immigrant identity, migrant mental health, cross-cultural relationships, workplace diversity, international students, social integration, loneliness abroad, belonging, and cultural adaptation. #MulticulturalAustralia #ImmigrantLife #CulturalIntegration #MigrationStories #InternationalStudents #LifeInAustralia #MigrantExperience #CrossCultural #Belonging #DiversityAndInclusion #PodcastAustralia #Identity #MelbourneLife #Diaspora #InBetweenLife

    Episode 14 - Multicultural Australia “The Invisible Labour of Cultural Integration”

  8. Apr 30

    Episode 13- Diversity & Inclusion in Australian Workplaces: The Reality for Migrants

    Australia is known as one of the most multicultural countries in the world—but what does inclusion actually look like when you’re a migrant working here? In this episode of In Between Life, I share my experience as a pastry chef and skilled migrant in Melbourne, exploring the reality of diversity and inclusion in Australian workplaces—especially in hospitality. Because there’s a difference between being present at work… and truly feeling like you belong. From navigating communication styles and cultural differences to understanding workplace dynamics, confidence, and visibility—this episode breaks down what many migrants experience but rarely talk about openly. We also connect real experiences with research from cross-cultural psychology and workplace studies to understand: • The difference between diversity and inclusion• Why many migrants feel “present but not included” at work• Cultural differences in communication and leadership styles• The role of confidence, visibility, and workplace dynamics in career growth• Psychological safety and why it matters in multicultural teams• How migration impacts identity, performance, and belonging• Practical ways migrants can navigate Australian work culture If you’re an immigrant, international student, or professional working in Australia—especially in hospitality, healthcare, IT, or service industries—this episode will resonate deeply. This is not just a conversation about workplaces. It’s about identity, belonging, and what it takes to build a life—and a career—in a new country. Australian Bureau of Statistics Roberson, Q.M. (2006) — Workplace InclusionShore, L.M. et al. (2011) — Inclusion & PerformanceGeert Hofstede — Cultural Dimensions TheoryAmy Edmondson — Psychological SafetyJohn W. Berry (1997) — Acculturation TheorySyed & Özbilgin (2009) — Migration & Workplace Marginality🎙️ In Between Life explores migration, identity, hospitality life, and the real experiences of building a future in Australia. 📢 Follow the podcast for real migrant stories💬 Share this episode with someone navigating work in Australia📊 Vote in the poll and join the conversation

    Episode 13- Diversity & Inclusion in Australian Workplaces: The Reality for Migrants
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About

In Between Life explores leadership, workplace culture, employee experience, and belonging through the lens of lived experience and evidence-based research. Hosted by Gaurvi—a former entrepreneur, pastry chef, and skilled migrant in Australia—the podcast examines communication, diversity and inclusion, psychological safety, organisational culture, and the future of work. Whether you're a leader, HR professional, student, migrant, or simply passionate about better workplaces, each episode offers practical insights for building cultures where people and organisations thrive.

Information

  • Creator
    Gaurvi
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gaurvi
  • Show Website
    The In- Between Life