Happier At Work: Leadership, Culture, Performance

Aoife O'Brien
  • 4.9 (26)
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Happier at Work is a workplace psychology podcast for commercial leaders who want to drive performance, engagement, and retention through better leadership and culture. Hosted by workplace culture strategist Aoife O’Brien, the podcast explores what really shapes the modern work experience, from leadership and career growth to confidence, workplace culture, and employee engagement. Each episode blends expert insight, psychological research, practical strategies, and honest conversations to help leaders and professionals create environments where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work. Guests include leading psychologists, bestselling authors, and experienced professionals who are putting these ideas into practice inside real organisations. If you care about building high-performing teams, stronger cultures, and workplaces people want to stay in, this podcast is for you. 🎧 Subscribe and start building a happier way to work.

  1. 1D AGO

    301: Rethinking How We Build Resilience at Work

    Are you struggling to balance resilience with realistic workplace expectations? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O'Brien takes a deep dive into the concept of resilience at work. Challenging the traditional view that resilience is purely an individual trait, Aoife explores the systemic factors that shape our need for resilience, and makes a compelling case for addressing both personal practices and organisational structures. Through personal stories, frameworks from her book "Thriving Talent," and live audience reflections, Aoife highlights the importance of psychological safety, values alignment, and sustainable workplace cultures. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The pitfalls of treating resilience as only an individual responsibility.How organisational culture, values alignment, and psychological safety affect resilience and well-being.The necessity of open dialogue about workload. Related Topics Covered: Self Care, Burnout, Psychological Safety Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 258: How to be More Resilient with MH Pelletier About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now Book

    16 min
  2. 300: How Great Leaders Build Thriving Teams with Bhushan Sethi, Live from NYC!

    APR 24

    300: How Great Leaders Build Thriving Teams with Bhushan Sethi, Live from NYC!

    How can leaders and organisations create truly thriving and happier workplaces in today’s ever-changing world? In this milestone 300th episode of the Happier at Work podcast, recorded live at PwC in New York, host Aoife O’ Brien swaps seats and answers insightful questions from Bhushan Sethi about her new book, “Thriving Talent.” Together, Aoife and Bhushan dig into practical ways individuals and organisations can drive performance, foster well-being, and build resilient cultures where both people and business results thrive, even amid global disruption, generational shifts, and the rise of AI. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The importance of setting clear expectations and frequent feedback for performance and well-beingWhy thriving workplaces benefit both people and the bottom line, supported by research showing significant gains in profitability, engagement, and retentionThe difference between “being nice” and true kindness as a leadership strengthUnderstanding the cost of turnover and the business case for investing in people Related Topics Covered: Cost & Turnover, Transparency at Work, Thriving Talent Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with Bhushan Sethi | Partner at PwC: TikTokLinkedInWebsiteTwitter Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 50: Bhushan Sethi on the Future of Work Episode 150: Navigating the New Business Landscape with Bhushan Sethi Episode 200: Reskilling Diversity and Building a Happier Workplace with Bhushan Sethi Bonus Episode: Bhushan Sethi on Building a Happier Workplace About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now Book

    32 min

  3. APR 17 ·  BONUS

    Marketing & Publicity: How to Get The Word Out

    How do you use marketing to achieve success? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien offers an honest and practical deep dive into the realities of publishing, writing, and marketing “Thriving Talent.” From deciding to create a dedicated website to navigating the emotional journey of seeking endorsements and handling criticism, you’ll hear how success depends on much more than just writing the book. Aoife also pulls back the curtain on the hard work and resilience it takes to market a book, building relationships, orchestrating publicity, and celebrating community support. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The strategic process of building a dedicated book website and the value of collaborating with professionals for web development and copywriting.Insights into reaching out for endorsements, the importance of having credible voices support your work, and tracking outreach efforts with methodical organisation.The emotional challenges of putting yourself out there: Facing judgment, criticism, and the importance of focusing on feedback from those who are “in the arena.” Related Topics Covered: Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 293: Recognising and Understanding your Drivers at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now Book

    11 min

  4. APR 10 ·  BONUS

    What Really Goes into Writing and Editing a Leadership Book

    Have you ever wondered what the next steps are after writing a book? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien dives deep into the realities of the book writing and publishing process, sharing personal challenges, victories, and lessons learned while creating "Thriving Talent." If you’ve ever doubted your ability to write a book or are simply curious about what it takes, this episode uncovers the structure, self-doubt, editing hurdles, and feedback loops essential to bringing a book to life. Aoife also sheds light on the ongoing journey of editing, proofreading, and preparing to get the book into readers’ hands, with a sneak peek into the marketing efforts still to come. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The importance of having a clear book structure and breaking content into subsections for clarity and direction.Understanding the value of slowing down and considering your audience’s perspective, ensuring your message is clear to readers who may be new to the topic.How to market your book: It is practically a full-time job, but is an essential next phase for getting your message out. Related Topics Covered: Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 293: Recognising and Understanding your Drivers at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now Book

    10 min

  5. APR 3 ·  BONUS

    Behind the Scenes of Publishing Thriving Talent

    Are you curious about what really goes on behind the scenes of publishing a book? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O’Brien offers a candid, insightful look into the journey from book idea to publication week for her debut business book, "Thriving Talent." From early aspirations and overcoming doubts to finding the right writing community and publisher, she demystifies the often opaque world of book publishing. Whether you’re dreaming of publishing your own book or simply intrigued by the process, this episode provides both encouragement and practical wisdom. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The difference between the writing process and the publishing process, and why each mattersThe value of joining a writing community for accountability and motivation in early draftsInsights into word counts for business books and how content evolves through editing Related Topics Covered: Writing a book, Idea development, Personal Goals Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: WebsiteLinkedInYouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 297: Creating Space for Talent to Thrive Episode 293: Recognising and Understanding your Drivers at Work About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book - out now Book

    11 min
  6. It's Publication Day for Thriving Talent!

    MAR 30 ·  BONUS

    It's Publication Day for Thriving Talent!

    Today is publication day for my book, Thriving Talent: How Great Leaders Drive Performance, Engagement and Retention. https://www.thrivingtalentbook.com This isn’t just a milestone moment—it’s a chance to pause and reflect on what this journey has really been about. Because writing a book isn’t just about getting your ideas down on paper. It changes how you think. It forces clarity. It challenges what you thought you knew. In this short solo episode, I’m sharing: What surprised me most about the writing and publishing processThe deeper message behind Thriving TalentWhy this book isn’t about fixing people at workAnd what I hope this sparks for leaders, teams, and organisations If you’ve ever felt frustrated by disengagement, burnout, or “quiet quitting” in your organisation—this episode (and the book) is for you. Key TakeawaysMost workplace challenges are framed as people problems—but they’re often system problemsEngagement, performance, and retention are outcomes of the environment leaders createWriting a book forces you to move from ideas to clarity—and from clarity to convictionLeadership isn’t about having the title—it’s about how you show up and the conditions you createSmall changes in culture, recognition, and psychological safety can have a significant impact About the BookThriving Talent introduces a practical, research-backed framework to help leaders create environments where people can perform, grow, and stay. It brings together five core elements: Psychological safetyCultureDrivers of motivationCapabilities and strengthsLeadership This is not about adding more to your plate. It’s about focusing on what actually makes a difference. Get the BookIf you’d like to explore these ideas further, you can get your copy of Thriving Talent here: 👉 https://www.thrivingtalentbook.com (First week orders make a huge difference for first-time authors, so thank you for your support.) If this episode resonated, I’d love to hear from you: What stood out?What are you seeing in your own organisation? Connect with me on LinkedIn or explore more resources at: 🌐 https://happieratwork.ie podcast@happieratwork.ie Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoy the Happier at Work podcast, don’t forget to: Follow or subscribeLeave a reviewShare this episode with someone who needs to hear it Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ

    10 min

  7. MAR 27

    299: How to Overcome Fear in Leadership

    Are you ready to become a more effective and conscious leader? In this solo episode of the Happier at Work podcast, host Aoife O'Brien wraps up the Thriving Talent series by delving into the realities of leadership, what it really takes to lead both yourself and others. Drawing on research for her forthcoming book "Thriving Talent" and reflecting on personal experiences, Aoife O'Brien explores the crucial role of self-awareness, the challenges many first-time leaders encounter, and the traits that set great bosses apart from the rest. In This Episode, You’ll Discover: The critical importance of self-leadership and self-awareness as the foundation for leading others.The impact of emotional triggers and how understanding your reactions can enhance your leadership.Practical steps to become a more empowering, effective leader. Related Topics Covered: Bad Bosses, Emotional Awareness, Toxicity at Work Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 75: Let go of fear and Craft your Career with Tiana Madera Episode 174: The Role of Emotions in Workplace Dynamics with Dr. Lola Gershfeld About Happier at Work® Happier at Work® is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work®. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

    10 min

  8. MAR 23

    Bonus Episode: Navigating Today’s Multigenerational Workforce

    In this bonus episode of the The Happier at Work Podcast, host Aoife O’Brien reflects on her recent conversation with Dr Mary Collins, exploring the tensions that can arise between generations in the workplace. Rather than framing generational differences as a “people problem,” this episode highlights a more powerful perspective: intergenerational conflict is often a leadership design problem. When expectations, communication systems, and feedback processes aren’t clearly defined, misunderstandings and frustration naturally follow. Aoife breaks down five key insights from the conversation and shares practical actions leaders can take to create stronger collaboration across generations. Here are the key takeaways: Intergenerational dynamics at workWhy generational tension is often a leadership design issueCommunication breakdowns across different work stylesDelivering effective feedback across generationsRethinking learning and development in modern workplacesLeveraging generational strengths within teams Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®: Website LinkedIn YouTube Connect with Dr. Mary Collins | Chartered Psychologist & Senior Coach Practitioner: InstagramLinkedIn Related Episodes You’ll Love: Episode 262: Foster Connection Using Compassionate Leadership with Jen Marr About Happier at Work Happier at Work is the podcast for business leaders who want to create meaningful, human-centric workplaces. Hosted by Aoife O’Brien, the show explores leadership, career clarity, imposter syndrome, workplace culture, and employee engagement — helping you and your team thrive. If you enjoy podcasts like WorkLife with Adam Grant, The Happiness Lab, or Squiggly Careers, you’ll love Happier at Work. Join Aoife O’Brien for weekly insights on leadership, workplace culture, career clarity, imposter syndrome, and creating work that works for you. Editing by Amanda Fitzgerald. Website: https://happieratwork.ie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aoifemobrien/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HappierAtWorkHQ Mentioned in this episode: Thriving Talent book Book

    8 min
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4.9
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26 Ratings

About

Happier at Work is a workplace psychology podcast for commercial leaders who want to drive performance, engagement, and retention through better leadership and culture. Hosted by workplace culture strategist Aoife O’Brien, the podcast explores what really shapes the modern work experience, from leadership and career growth to confidence, workplace culture, and employee engagement. Each episode blends expert insight, psychological research, practical strategies, and honest conversations to help leaders and professionals create environments where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to do their best work. Guests include leading psychologists, bestselling authors, and experienced professionals who are putting these ideas into practice inside real organisations. If you care about building high-performing teams, stronger cultures, and workplaces people want to stay in, this podcast is for you. 🎧 Subscribe and start building a happier way to work.

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