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

    2d ago

    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

    20 min
  2. Episode 16 -Micromanagers, Control Freaks & The Future of Leadership

    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

    14 min
  3. Episode 15: Individualism vs Community – What Living in Australia Taught Me About Belonging

    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

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

    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

    14 min
  5. Episode 13- Diversity & Inclusion in Australian Workplaces: The Reality for Migrants

    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

    9 min
  6. Episode 12- What Migration Teaches You About Leadership, Identity & Work Culture; India, France, Australia

    Apr 23

    Episode 12- What Migration Teaches You About Leadership, Identity & Work Culture; India, France, Australia

    What does it really mean to build a career across countries? In this episode of In Between Life, I share my journey as a pastry chef working in India, France, and Australia—and the deeper lessons behind it. This is not just about hospitality. It’s about how migration reshapes the way you think about work, leadership, business, and identity. From high-pressure kitchens in India to the precision-driven craft culture of France, and the structured, multicultural workplaces of Australia—each system taught me something different about what it takes to grow, adapt, and survive as a migrant professional. But beyond the surface, this episode also explores the psychology of migration. Why do so many skilled migrants feel like they are starting from zero again?Why does identity feel unstable when you move countries?And how do different cultures shape the way we lead, work, and build careers? Drawing from research in cross-cultural psychology, leadership theory, and vocational identity, this episode connects real-life experience with deeper insights into: • Migrant life in Australia• Hospitality careers across countries• Leadership styles in India vs France vs Australia• Cultural differences in workplaces• Identity shifts and starting over as a skilled migrant• Business models and labour systems across economies• The emotional reality of rebuilding your career abroad If you’re an immigrant, international student, chef, or professional navigating life in Australia—this episode will resonate. And if you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly adapting, proving yourself, or rebuilding your identity in a new country… this conversation is for you. 🎙️ In Between Life is a podcast about migration, identity, hospitality life, and everything we go through while becoming. 📢 Follow the podcast to support the journey💬 Share this episode with someone building a life abroad📊 Vote in the poll and be part of the conversation Academic References - United Nations (2020) — International Migration Report→ Over 281 million people live outside their country of birth (3.6% of global population)John W. Berry (1997) — Acculturation and Adaptation→ Introduces the concept of acculturative stress in migrants adjusting to new culturesGeert Hofstede — Cultural Dimensions Theory→ Explains power distance, hierarchy, and cultural differences in workplacesHenri Tajfel & John Turner (1979) — Social Identity Theory→ Identity shaped by social groups, belonging, and environmentColleen Ward, Bochner & Furnham (2001) — The Psychology of Culture Shock→ Cultural adjustment, adaptation, and migrant experience in new environmentsVocational Identity Research (VET Studies, 2020–2025)→ Craft-based identity and occupational identity formation in skilled professionsAustralian Bureau of Statistics→ Over 30% of Australia’s population is overseas-born, highlighting a multicultural workforce

    15 min
  7. Episode 11 - Loneliness as a Migrant: The Part No One Prepares You For

    Apr 13

    Episode 11 - Loneliness as a Migrant: The Part No One Prepares You For

    Loneliness is one of the most common — and least talked about — experiences of moving to a new country. In this episode of In Between Life, I talk about the emotional reality of loneliness as a migrant in Australia — something that doesn’t come with visa documents, job offers, or university brochures. From working long hours in hospitality to navigating cultural differences and building friendships from scratch, this episode explores what it really feels like to live far from home. I also connect personal experiences with research from cross-cultural psychology and migration studies, including concepts like acculturative stress and identity shift — to explain why so many immigrants feel isolated, even when surrounded by people. We talk about: • Why loneliness is common among immigrants in Australia • The challenge of making meaningful friendships as an adult • Cultural differences in social life and communication • Staying within your own community vs integrating into a new culture • Identity shifts and the emotional impact of migration • Work-life patterns that increase isolation (especially in hospitality) • How loneliness can also become a space for growth and self-discovery If you’re an immigrant, international student, or working professional in Australia who has ever felt alone, disconnected, or in between — this episode will resonate with you. This is not just your experience. It’s a shared reality. 🎙️ Follow In Between Life for honest conversations about migrant life in Australia, identity, mental health, hospitality careers, and everything we go through while becoming. Episode References - Berry, J.W. (1997) — Acculturative Stress & AdaptationTajfel & Turner (1979) — Social Identity TheoryWard, Bochner & Furnham (2001) — Culture Shock & AdjustmentStudies in Migration & Cross-Cultural Psychology (Google Scholar)

    9 min
  8. Episode 10- Journey so far...WORK, LEADERSHIP and IDENTITY

    Apr 6

    Episode 10- Journey so far...WORK, LEADERSHIP and IDENTITY

    What does it really feel like to build a life in Australia as an immigrant in 2026? In this episode of In Between Life, I reflect on everything we’ve talked about so far — from the rising cost of living in Australia to burnout, identity, and the emotional reality of starting over. Following my last episode on the cost of living, I dive deeper into what’s changed since 2022 — including inflation, petrol prices, groceries, and government relief measures — and why, despite these changes, many immigrants and hospitality workers still feel financially and emotionally stretched. This episode is also a reflection on the journey of this podcast and the stories shared so far: • The pressure to find your first job in Australia • The reality of working in hospitality as a migrant • Conversations with Sandra, Darlene, and fellow chefs navigating visa pressure and responsibility • Burnout in demanding industries and the mental health impact of migration • Insights from Isha on emotional exhaustion, resilience, and coping strategies • Identity struggles — living between visas, countries, and versions of yourself If you’re an immigrant, international student, or working professional in Australia trying to build stability while navigating uncertainty — this episode will resonate deeply. This is not just one story. This is a shared experience. 🎙️ Follow In Between Life for real, unfiltered conversations about migrant life in Australia, hospitality careers, mental health, identity, and the journey of becoming Reach out to me on Instagram - @itsthecookiebrain Linkedin - Gaurvi P

    11 min
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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
    2K
  • Episodes
    18
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Gaurvi
  • Show Website
    The In- Between Life