The WorkWell Podcast™ (Jen Fisher)

In 1938, the Harvard Study of Adult Development was created to understand the secret to a long and happy life. While the study is still going on today, the findings uncovered that the quality of our relationships correlates directly to our longevity and happiness, and has provided insight into what we can do differently to live a longer and more fulfilling life. On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Dr. Robert Waldinger, a psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and a Zen Priest, about the study’s findings, and how friendships and relationships can influence our mental and physical health, both in our social and professional lives.

Considering that we spend a third to half of our waking hours in any given week at work, the workplace is a critical place for developing meaningful connections that we all need to thrive. On this special episode, WorkWell producer from Rivet360, Jesse Betend, guest hosts and gets the inside scoop on the recently released book Work Better Together, from the authors Deloitte US Human Sustainability Leader Jen Fisher and Deloitte Global CEO Program Research Director Anh Phillips.

You don’t often hear the words work and play together. You couldn’t possibly be productive at work and have fun at the same time. Could you? Yes. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Gary Ware, author of Playful Rebellion and founder of Breakthrough Play, about the importance of fun in the workplace and the gifts play can bring including vulnerability, quicker problem solving, and joy.

It’s no secret – people love their pets. Not only do we care for them, but they provide companionship like no other and have a positive impact on our daily lives. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Mark Cushing, founder and CEO of the Animal Policy Group, and author of Pet Nation on the evolution of the human-animal bond, and how our love for our pets has ignited a cultural transformation.

Facing the uncertainty of COVID-19, it is common to experience heightened stress, such as fear, anxiety, and overwhelming emotions. In this special edition episode Jen Fisher offers guidance on managing anxiety and stress during this time.

If we want to be at our best, at home and at work, we need to make our mental and emotional health a priority. Start with small, incremental steps that can add up to make a big impact. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Arianna Huffington, the founder and CEO of Thrive Global, the founder of The Huffington Post, and a bestselling author.

Loss can have an incredible impact on our lives, but how we respond to it can either lead us down a path of growth or stop us in our tracks. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Karen Guggenheim, happiness advocate, international speaker, social entrepreneur, and the founder of the World Happiness Summit.

Well-being has moved to the center of conversation. But moving from conversation to action with lasting impact can be difficult. By changing your mindset, you rewire your brain to help set you up for greater well-being and for true success. On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Thrive Global’s Chief Training Officer, Joey Hubbard, about importance of well-being, beliefs, and mindsets. Learn about how neuroscience, motivation, and taking consistent microsteps can help you shift your mindset for sustainable results.

Emotions may seem complicated, but by better understanding their value and function we can learn how to harness their power to enhance relationships and improve well-being. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses the science of emotions with Dr. Dacher Keltner, the founding director of the Greater Good Science Center and a professor of psychology at the University of California Berkeley.

There's a myth that if you're passionate about your work, you're less likely to be stressed. But on the contrary, those of us who love what we do are sometimes even more prone to burnout. One particularly vulnerable group is entrepreneurs. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses the vital role self-care plays in pursuing your passions with Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon an educator, speaker, writer, community builder, and the founder and CEO of the Village Market.

We all make mistakes and when we do, we're often quick to criticize ourselves. But self-criticism can take a toll on our mental and emotional health. On this episode, Deloitte chief well-being officer Jen Fisher talks with Kristin Neff, associate professor in Educational Psychology at the University of Texas, Austin and author of Self-Compassion, The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself, about the components of self-compassion and how to develop it within yourself.

Today, leaders are facing new challenges to the mental and emotional health of their teams. Though many physically or virtually show up, they may not be fully engaged—an effect called presenteeism. Jen Fisher talks with Janet Foutty, Deloitte US Chair of the Board, about the skills leaders need to reengage with our work, our workplace, and our workforce to emerge from this crisis stronger than ever before.

The Economy of Ease (& Why It's Making Us Miserable) with Caroline Chubb Calderon

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast, Jen Fisher speaks with Caroline Chubb Calderon, futurist, humanist, and founder and CEO of Hello Humanity, a company dedicated to reimagining humanity in the age of machines. Caroline works with leaders worldwide to create a future where technology enhances rather than diminishes our human experience.

Episode Highlights:

• How to unlock human flourishing in the age of artificial intelligence
• Why our current economic model leads to mental health issues and disconnection
• The difference between an "economy of ease" and an "ecology of meaning"
• Why synthetic relationships through AI can never replace real human connection
• The dangers of deploying AI for mental health support versus clinical analysis
• How courage and vulnerability are essential for transforming our systems
• The eight principles of life that can guide our relationship with technology
• Practical steps organizations can take to prioritize human intelligence alongside AI

Quotable Moments:

"We've been creating a world of ease where we live in an economy where everything is driven to improving the ease of life. What would it look like to move from an ease economy to a regenerative and meaning ecology?" - Caroline Chubb Calderon

Resources:

Learn more about Caroline’s work at Hello Humanity

Watch Caroline’s TEDx Talk 

This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

 You exercise your body, but what do you do for your mind? Are you constantly multi-tasking or thinking about what’s next? Mindfulness is the key to quieting the mind and enhancing focus. And practicing just a few minutes a day can provide benefits, including relaxation, better control of emotions, and greater self-awareness. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses strategies for strengthening your mind with Laurie Cameron, an author, speaker, and leading voice on mindfulness and meditation.

Sleep is foundational to your well-being and vital to your health. When you get the sleep your body needs, you can perform at your best. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Jeff Kahn, co-founder and CEO of Rise Science, a sleep technology company that uses science and data to improve sleep.

Anxiety is a daily struggle for many. In fact, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million Americans also live with it. To truly manage anxiety long term, you need to address your holistic well-being and better understand the root cause of your anxiety. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Ellen Vora, board-certified psychiatrist, acupuncturist, yoga teacher, and author of The Anatomy of Anxiety, about considering the whole person when addressing mental health.

Climate change and the uncertainty about the health of our planet can be a source of stress for many. How can you manage climate anxiety, and do your part to save the planet? It starts by taking action. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Heather White, author, founder, and CEO of One Green Thing about climate anxiety, generational perspectives and opportunities, and the adoption of a daily practice of sustainability.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, frontline and essential workers continued to do the work needed to keep society afloat and citizens safe. But how are they protecting their own well-being? On this special episode, Jen Fisher and Mike Kearney, Deloitte Risk & Financial Advisory CMO and host of the Resilient podcast, discuss resilience in times of crisis with Mike McCabe, Chief of Operations at McCabe Ambulance Service and host of the EMS World Podcast.

Our constantly connected society gives us greater access to what we want, when we want it. But it also comes with a price—the stronger our wifi connection, the less connected we become to ourselves and our purpose. On this episode, Jen Fisher discusses purpose and intention with Jonathan Fields, award winning writer and founder of the Good Life Project and colleague Mike Kearney, Deloitte Risk and Financial Advisory partner, and host of the Resilient podcast series.

Many organizations have perks and programs designed to enhance employee wellness, but these efforts often miss the mark in actually boosting worker well-being. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Richard Safeer, Chief Medical Director of employee health and well-being for Johns Hopkins Medicine and author of A Cure for the Common Company: A Well-Being Prescription for a Happier, Healthier, and More Resilient Workforce about the importance of truly building well-being into the core of an organization through peer support, leader engagement, setting norms, shared values, and more.

Stop Saying 'Hope Is Not a Strategy' (Science Proves You Wrong) with Kathryn Goetzke

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and suicidal thoughts that may be triggering for some listeners. If you're experiencing thoughts of suicide, please know you're not alone - you can reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 24/7 by calling or texting 988.

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher opens with a powerful personal reflection on her own journey with hope, challenging the dismissive phrase "hope is not a strategy" and reframing hope as both a comfort and a challenge—not just something we feel, but something we do. She then speaks with Kathryn Goetzke, CEO and Chief Hope Officer of The Shine Hope Company, whose evidence-based work proves that hope is a measurable, teachable skill with profound implications for workplace wellbeing, productivity, and retention.

Episode Highlights:

• How Kathryn's personal experiences with loss and recovery led to her mission of teaching hope as a skill
• The SHINE Hope Framework: Stress skills, Happiness habits, Inspired actions, Nourishing networks, and Eliminating challenges
• Why hopelessness is the single consistent predictor of suicide and a primary symptom of depression
• Evidence that as hope increases, anxiety and depressive symptoms decrease
• How hope scores directly correlate with workplace engagement, productivity, and retention
• The business case for hope: 53% of parents miss a day of work each month due to their children's mental health
• Practical ways leaders can model and foster hope in workplace settings
• The distinction between hope as a wish versus hope as an evidence-based strategy

Quotable Moment:
"Hope is a strategy. We've done the research to prove that the higher in hope your workforce is, the more likely they are to show up to work, be engaged, achieve goals, and overcome obstacles." - Kathryn Goetzke

Stories of experiencing burnout at work aren’t uncommon. With self-awareness, strong social connections, and resilience skills, you can avoid burnout and be your best self in work and life! On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Paula Davis, founder and CEO of the Stress & Resilience Institute and the author of Beating Burnout at Work: Why Teams Hold the Secret to Well-Being and Resilience.

Does striving for work-life balance feel like an elusive goal that you can never quite reach? That’s because designing a fulfilling life isn’t about balance, it’s about creating a rhythm that integrates all the key ingredients of a meaningful existence. And one key ingredient that we often overlook is the importance of play. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses creating a work, life, play rhythm with Aaron McHugh author, speaker, podcaster, and adventurer. 

Meditation can have incredible benefits to both your physical and mental health, and help make you happier! On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Dan Harris, a long-time anchor and Emmy award winning correspondent at BBC news. He is also the creator of the podcast and app, 10% Happier, and the author of the number one New York Times bestseller, 10% Happier.

Have you ever watched a beautiful sunset and it gave you goosebumps? That’s awe! On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Jonah Paquette, psychologist, author, and speaker specializing in the areas of happiness and well-being. His latest book, Awestruck, explores the underappreciated and often misunderstood emotion of awe.

On this special year-end WorkWell episode, Jen reflects on conversations she’s had with past guests. She shares 10 lessons she’s learned from the show that have helped her with some of the challenges we’ve faced during this tough year. Visit www.deloitte.com/us/workwell to find the full episodes.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Dr. Gabriella Rosen Kellerman, physician, entrepreneur, and co-author of Tomorrowmind: Thriving at Work with Resilience, Creativity, and Connection—Now and in an Uncertain Future. In a wide-ranging conversation, Gabriella and Jen discuss mindset shifts and Microsteps that help us build resilience, foster creativity, and succeed at work — and why qualities like connection, optimism, and empathy are essential if we’re going to thrive in the age of AI.

Parts of well-being are easier to talk about but stigma still stands in the way of having some of the tougher conversations. Substance use disorder is a mental illness that affects over 19.7 million Americans aged 12 and older, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. On this episode Jen Fisher has a conversation with Laura McKowen, author of We Are the Luckiest, about substance use disorder and the strength we can learn from those in recovery.

When you think about success in your job, what do you think about? Meeting deadlines, outperforming targets, fixing systematic issues? All of these may point to high performance. However, they fall short of some of the vital and often overlooked ways we should measure success like our own happiness. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, an international renowned teacher and author in the fields of happiness and leadership, about the science of happiness, what it is, how it improves personal and professional performance, and ways to pursue it.

The sudden mass conversion to remote work has created challenges, even for those who are accustomed to working in a remote environment. Nobody has figured it all out, but, as is human nature, we are learning and adapting. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses remote work strategies to cope and build resilience with Annie Dean.

Personal time is vital to our health and well-being, but in modern society it's also difficult to find and manage. On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Eve Rodsky, Harvard-educated lawyer, and best-selling author of the books Fair Play and Find Your Unicorn Space, about how balancing domestic or professional work can help you regain interest in your own life.

Relationships are vital to our health and well-being. However, with the rise of technology and social distancing in a worldwide pandemic, our human-to-human connections have suffered, especially in the workplace. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Susan McPherson, serial connector, seasoned communicator, founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies, and author of The Lost Art of Connecting: The Gather, Ask, Do Method for Building Meaningful Relationships, about how to rekindle connections and build new, meaningful relationships in the remote and hybrid environment.

Happiness is something we are all striving for, and why shouldn’t we be? But what if our pursuit of happiness is misguided? On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Emily Esfahani Smith, a writer and speaker who draws on psychology, philosophy, and literature to help us better understand the human experience.

Life throws us many twists and turns you can plan and prepare but that doesn't guarantee that there won't be a curveball that knocks you off your feet. When it does, how do you feel, how do you respond? On this episode, Deloitte chief well-being officer Jen Fisher discusses emotional agility with Dr. Susan David, an award-winning Harvard Medical School psychologist and author of the Wall Street Journal best-selling book Emotional Agility—Get Unstuck, Embrace Change, and Thrive In Work and Life.

By now, most, if not all of us, understand the impact that COVID-19 can have on our physical health, but what about the impact to our mental health? The challenges of our current environment are shaping who we are as individuals and communities. The question is—how do we rise to those challenges with resiliency? On this episode Jen Fisher discusses strategies for maintaining our mental health with Christine Moutier, MD and chief medical officer.

You can plan for the future, but sometimes life has a different idea. When the unexpected happens, the best you can do is follow your gut. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Julie Smolyansky, humanitarian, activist, and CEO of Lifeway Foods, on how resilience and a passion for gut health helped her lead through tragedy when she became the youngest female CEO of a publicly held organization.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States. But despite their prevalence, they are still often misunderstood and therefore go undiagnosed and untreated. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Judson Brewer, a renowned addiction psychiatrist and neuroscientist. Dr. Brewer is an associate professor at Brown University and executive medical director at Sharecare. His new book Unwinding Anxiety: New Science Shows How to Break the Cycles of Worry and Fear to Heal Your Mind is now a New York Times best seller.

On this episode, Deloitte Chief Well-being Officer Jen Fisher talks with Jenn Lim, CEO and cofounder of Delivering Happiness and author of “Beyond Happiness: How Authentic Leaders Prioritize Purpose and People for Growth and Impact”, about how teams and companies can integrate and embed happiness and purpose to help their people and organization to grow and thrive.

Sleep is essential to our health and well-being, but millions of Americans have chronic or ongoing sleep disorders. With over 80 different sleep disorders in existence, it’s important that we all increase our sleep education and build more awareness in our communities. On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Lindsay Scola, speaker, writer, and part of the Rising Voices of Narcolepsy program at Project Sleep, about her narcolepsy diagnosis journey, and on expanding conversations around patient advocacy and sleep disorders.

It started out as a mission to check things off their bucket list, but then turned into something much bigger. So big, in fact, that it changed Ben’s core belief system on how he views life. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses living as your ideal self with Ben Nemtin, a best-selling author and creator, producer, and cast member of MTV’s highest-rated show on iTunes, “The Buried Life.”

Our relationship with work is complicated. We want to be successful and do well at our job, but we also want to live a full and energized life. Is it possible to do both, or can we only be successful at work if we sacrifice our well-being? On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Sara Ross, Chief Vitality Officer at the leadership research firm, BrainAmped, and author of the book Dear Work: Something Has to Change, about how to create energy in people’s lives and at work.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Karen Eber, Chief Storyteller at Eber Leadership Group and  author of  The Perfect Story: How to Tell Stories that Inform, Influence, and Inspire. In a wide-ranging conversation, Jen and Karen talk about the art of storytelling as a tool that can help leaders inspire action and create a more connected culture. Karen offers guidance about what kind of stories to tell, the importance of being specific and authentic, and how to tell a great story.   

We all want success, but it can often come at the cost of burnout and exhaustion. The always on hustle culture pushes us to do more. But what we really need is rest, joy, and meaningful connections with others. On this episode, Deloitte Jen Fisher talks with Brad Stulberg, author of the best-selling book, The Practice of Groundedness and the co-author of the books, Peak Performance, and The Passion Paradox, about principles that can help improve performance without forgoing well-being.

Come As You Are' at Work (Terms & Conditions Apply) with Farah Harris

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher speaks with Farah Harris, licensed psychotherapist, workplace wellbeing expert, and CEO of Working Well Daily. Her book "The Color of Emotional Intelligence" challenges us to rethink what authenticity and emotional intelligence really mean across different cultures and identities in the workplace.

Episode Highlights:

•  The hidden costs of "bringing your whole self to work"
•  Why emotional intelligence looks different across cultures and backgrounds
•  How our family dynamics shape our workplace emotional expression
• The real price of fitting into "professional" culture
• What looks like "high EQ" might actually be a survival strategy
• Why declaring "safe spaces" doesn't make them safe
• The problem with one-size-fits-all approaches to emotional intelligence
• How power dynamics affect workplace authenticity
• The importance of having "safe people" to process workplace experiences

 Quotable Moment:
"If you can't take what you're learning outside of the four walls of the workplace, then is it truly applicable? Is it truly authentic?"
- Farah Harris

Lyra Lens:
We're excited to introduce Lyra Lens, a new segment with our friends from Lyra Health. "The beauty of inclusion and diversity at work is shifting from 'why do you do it like that?' to 'what can I learn from someone who does it differently?'" Andrea Holman shares this and other insights in today's Lyra Lens segment, where she joins Jen Fisher to discuss cultural humility in the workplace.

Resources:
This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

 In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Tia Graham, founder of Arrive at Happy and author of Be A Happy Leader. In a wide-ranging conversation, Jen and Tia discuss the meaning of happiness and share how happy leaders can create workplaces where everyone feels valued. 

On this WorkWell episode, Deloitte chief well-being office Jen Fisher shares six of her favorite books and reflects on how the themes of the books mirrored her experiences of 2020 and 2021.

We all want to be happy, but we may be trained to value success over happiness. How do we break the cycle to prioritize happiness in our own lives? The answer to solving for happiness might be clearer than you think. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer of Google X, author of Solve for Happy and Scary Smart, engineer, and podcast host on how we can solve the equation to our own happiness from the perspective of an engineer.

What we eat matters and the impact our diet has on our holistic well-being, including our mind, is sometimes forgotten. On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Tess Bredesen, Cognitive Nutrition Director at Thrive and the founder of Sia Health, on how nutrition can prevent cognitive decline and enhance our lives.

Whether you’re a leader or an independent contributor at work, you can become the CEO of your own well-being. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Naz Beheshti, an executive wellness coach, corporate wellness consultant, speaker, writer, change agent, and wellness warrior. She's also the author of the book, Pause. Breathe. Choose.: Become the CEO of your well-being.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Annie Dean, the global head of Team Anywhere at Atlassian and an expert on remote and flexible work. In a wide-ranging conversation, Jen and Annie go beyond surface-level questions of whether or not to return to the office and discuss how true flexibility at work leads to greater productivity and more meaningful connections.  

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s  Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Dr. Kelly Monahan, Managing Director of the Upwork Research Institute. In a wide-ranging conversation, Jen and Kelly explore strategies to create flexible working environments that power the growth of organizations and the people who work for them — and that redefine productivity and success for a new era. 

Building relationships are foundational to our humanity, but creating them with others, especially those that are different from ourselves, can feel challenging. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Simran Jeet Singh, educator, author, and activist on religion, racism, and justice on tuning into our spirituality, empathy, and compassion to create connections with others.

Deloitte surveyed 6,000 professionals across the globe for its 2021 Global Human Capital Trends report, and one important trend that emerged is that integrating well-being into work will be vital in a post-COVID world. On this episode, special guest host Colleen Reilly, a PhD candidate and teaching professor at the University of Denver interviews Jen Fisher and global human capital leader Erica Volini on the well-being findings.

When we’re hurt by others, we have the choice to forgive or hold onto a grudge. We often think of forgiveness as a gift we give someone who has done us wrong, but forgiveness is just as impactful to the giver. The act of forgiving is good for your health. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Fred Luskin, a world leading researcher and teacher about forgiveness and the author of the best-selling books, Forgive for Good and Forgive for Love, about why forgiveness is important, recognizing the need to forgive, and how to forgive.

We all go through loss at some point in our lives. And yet, for such a collective experience, it’s still something we struggle to talk about. In this episode Jen Fisher shares strategies to deal with loss and grief you may be experiencing, as well as supporting others who are going through a loss.

In this episode Jen Fisher talks with Eric Karpinski, a leading voice on positive psychology in the workplace and author of the book Put Happiness to Work: Seven Strategies to Elevate Engagement for Optimal Performance.

We all face challenges in life, but that doesn’t mean you have to let them hold you back. In fact, with the right mentality and support from your wolfpack, you can use these obstacles to help you grow, evolve, and succeed in work and life. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses overcoming failures with retired soccer player Abby Wambach, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and FIFA Women's World Cup champion.

Is your career ambition your North Star? Perhaps you are feeling or have felt burnt out by the time you reach your ambition. The problem isn’t that you are ambitious, the problem may be that your definition of success might not align with what you really value. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Milena Regos, founder and Chief Rebel Officer of Unhustle about how un-hustling can be your greatest asset in career success

Fighting cancer is tough. Luckily, no one needs to fight alone. Whether you’re a cancer patient, survivor or caregiver, having someone on your side who’s been there can help tremendously. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses the importance of having a support system with Jonny Imerman, founder of Imerman Angels, and Deloitte Partner Carl Allegretti.

So, when was the last time that you intentionally took some time-off? On this episode Jen Fisher talks with John Fitch and Max Frenzel, co-authors of the book Time-off and luminaries in the art and science of why we all need to create a rest ethic that matches our work ethic.

The pursuit of happiness is universal, but do we really understand what happiness means? It isn't the absence of negative emotions, nor is it a persistent unfaltering positivity. Happiness is a non-negotiable ingredient in a fulfilling, meaningful, and healthy life. On this episode Jen Fisher speaks with Nataly Kogan, co-founder and CEO of Happier. 

Parenting is one of the most rewarding, but also hardest jobs in life. All parents want to raise happy and healthy children. But modern society, social pressure, and recent challenges like the global pandemic can make it incredibly difficult. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Becky Kennedy, clinical psychologist, mom of three, and author of Good Inside about parenting challenges, connection strategies, and how parenting shows up in the workplace.

We all have experienced stress in one way or another. And for some, this stress can build up, and go far enough to where we experience complete burnout. But how can we help ourselves recognize what is causing us to feel burnout? On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Jennifer Moss, speaker, author, and workplace expert on finding the root causes and strategies that address burnout.

 In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Joanne Stephane, Executive Director of the Deloitte DEI Institute, and Kenji Yoshino, Professor of Constitutional Law at NYU and faculty director of the Meltzer Center for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging. In a wide-ranging conversation, they discuss the practice of “covering,” in which people downplay aspects of their identity at work to avoid negative reactions. And they share ways that organizations can better support people and help them be their authentic selves. 

We've all had the experience of dealing with a challenging colleague. It's not only unpleasant, but it can also impact our well-being, performance, and our organizational culture. So, what can we do as individuals and leaders to create a culture of kindness, respect, and community at work? On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Christine Porath, professor at Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business and author of Mastering Community: The Surprising Ways Coming Together Moves Us from Surviving to Thriving, about the impact of negative workplace behaviors and how to overcome them through resilience, radical candor, community building, and more to create an environment where people thrive.

That Difficult Coworker is Just a Character in Your Success Story with Tessa West

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher speaks with Dr. Tessa West, Professor of Psychology at New York University and author of "Jerks at Work: Toxic Coworkers and What to Do About Them" and "Job Therapy: A Psychologist's Guide to Finding Your Most Fulfilling Job Yet." Her research reveals surprising patterns about difficult workplace relationships and career satisfaction.

Episode Highlights:

• The five types of workplace jerks: Kiss Up/Kick Downers, Credit Stealers, Free Riders, Bulldozers, and Gaslighters
• Why gaslighters are the most psychologically damaging but also the rarest type of workplace jerk
• How to strategically document and address problematic workplace behavior without making it personal
• Why confronting office jerks alone is often the biggest mistake people make
• The surprising truth about "toxic rockstars" and whether you really have to put up with them
• The five sources of career frustration: identity crisis, drifted apart, stretched too thin, runner-up, and underappreciated star
• Why "follow your passion" is terrible career advice and what to focus on instead
• How to use the Working Week Audit to identify your true workplace stressors
• A fresh perspective on work-life balance as psychological integration rather than time management

Quotable Moment:

Lyra Lens:
In this edition, Keren Wasserman, Senior Manager of Organizational Development at Lyra Health, explores how workplace jerks thrive by manipulating systems - and how understanding those systems is key to overcoming them. She highlights that when we take back our power through actions like building connections and amplifying other voices, "we not only shift the power dynamics, but also improve the quality of the work itself." Keren also connects Tessa's job-person fit framework with burnout research, offering a workplace version of the Serenity Prayer to help us recognize "our needs and what we can change about our environment.

Resources:

This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with speaker, workplace mental health consultant, and executive Morra Aarons-Mele, author of The Anxious Achiever: Turn Your Biggest Fears into Your Leadership Superpower to discuss how to manage the anxiety that comes with succeeding and leading.  

Time is a precious resource, yet we live in a culture that constantly makes us feel like we never have enough of it. With only 24 hours in a day, countless distractions, and growing to-do lists, how can we make sure we are spending our time on the things that matter and give us joy? On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Cassie Holmes, award-winning teacher and researcher, professor of at UCLA's Anderson School of Management, and best-selling author of the book, Happier Hour, about how being intentional about your time can make you happier.

How can we evolve relationships to have deeper meaning and better connection? It starts by learning the fundamental building blocks of exceptional relationships; feeling fully known, trusting each other, honesty, dealing with conflict productively, and committing to each other’s learning and development. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Carole Robin, co-author of Connect: Building Exceptional Relationships with Family, Friends and Colleagues, and former Stanford Business School professor about how we can move our relationships along the continuum from dysfunctional to exceptional.

Life is full of challenges and setbacks. Resilience is what helps us bounce back from them. And just like a muscle in the body, resilience can grow stronger through practice. On this episode, Deloitte Well-being leader Jen Fisher discusses strategies to build resilience, vitality, and a deeper mind-body connection with Emiliya Zhivotovskaya, a leading voice in the world of positive psychology and the science of flourishing.

When the pandemic hit in 2020, we all experienced feelings of disconnection from our co-workers, friends, families, communities, and even ourselves. We learned the importance of human connection. We learned that we can still all show up for our community. And most importantly, we learned that we need to take care of ourselves to be able to take care of others. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Shelly Tygielski, founder of Pandemic of Love, author of Sit Down to Rise Up, and a self-care activist, about mindfulness, self-care, and the concept of communities of care.

When it comes to sports, physical ability is only part of the equation for high performance. Mental health is equally important, if not more so. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Nyaka NiiLampti, Vice President of Wellness and Clinical Services at the NFL. She’s a licensed psychologist with more than fifteen years of clinical experience with organizations, sports teams, individuals, and families.

There are a lot of self-help philosophies out there, but some aren’t actually very helpful. We all want to become better people, but we also need to acknowledge that growth isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Mark Manson, #1 NY Times Bestselling author of The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck and Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope, about personal development and the importance of taking responsibility, making choices, self-awareness, and so much more.

Self-care is a popular term, but what is it really? Real self-care is hard work and involves making difficult choices in your own life. How can we change our mindset around self-care to ensure that we're taking care of ourselves and not just following the latest faux-wellness fads? On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Dr. Pooja Lakshmin, a board-certified psychiatrist, a clinical assistant professor, author of Real Self-Care, and the founder and CEO of Gemma, about what real self-care is, and how setting boundaries and identifying values helps people achieve their wellness goals.

The great resignation is a clear indicator that many people are no longer willing to tolerate jobs that leave them unhappy, and in a constant state of stress and fatigue. But current conversations around workplace well-being often overlook the C-suite, how they’re effected, and how that can impact an entire organization. Together with Workplace Intelligence, we conducted a marketplace survey of employees and leaders to better understand how the C-suite can improve both their employees and their own well-being. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Dan Schawbel, New York Times bestselling author and managing partner of Workplace Intelligence, about the survey results and the C-suite’s role in organizational well-being.

Meaningful relationships at work are one of the greatest drivers of workplace engagement and satisfaction. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Erica Keswin, a speaker, author, workplace strategist and founder of The Spaghetti Project, a platform dedicated to sharing the science and stories of human connections.

According to the American Psychological Association, up to 1 in 7 women experience postpartum depression. But despite its prevalence, many don’t seek the help they need due to stigmas. One way we can breakdown these barriers is by sharing personal stories to build greater awareness. On this episode, Jen Fisher discusses postpartum depression with three mothers (and Deloitte colleagues) Leticia Roinesdal, Elizabeth Lascaze, and Caitlin Goodrich.

Mental health stigmas are persistent in society, but with knowledge, kindness, and empathy, they can be broken down. A great place to start is with a conversation. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses mental health stigmas and how to overcome them with Pamela Harrington, Executive Director of Bring Change 2 Mind, a non-profit focused on raising awareness about mental health.

Taking care of yourself is a must if you want to show up for your loved ones and be your best self at home and at work. Self-care is one tool that can help us protect our mental and emotional well-being, but it isn’t one-size-fits-all. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Naomi Hirabayashi and Marah Lidey, co-founders and co-CEO’s of the app, Shine, focused on providing a more inclusive self-care experience.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Selena Rezvani, author of Quick Confidence: Be Authentic, Create Connections and Make Bold Bets on Yourself. In a wide-ranging conversation, Jen and Selena talk about how to build confidence, believe in your own strengths and trust your intuition by taking small daily steps. 

Technology improves everyday life in so many ways. But those benefits may overshadow the negative impacts that technology use has on how we act, think, and connect with each other. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses how technology use impacts our behavior and our relationships with Adam Alter, best-selling author and associate professor of marketing at New York University’s Stern School of Business.

Think about some of the best leaders you’ve known in your career. Were they great listeners, empathetic, cared about your and others well-being, and had your back? On this episode, Deloitte Chief Well-being Officer Jen Fisher talks with Dr. Dan Goleman, psychologist and author of the bestseller, “Emotional Intelligence and Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships”, about the importance of emotional intelligence throughout the workplace. 

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s  Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Stephanie Harrison, founder of The New Happy and author of New Happy: Getting Happiness Right in a World That’s Got It Wrong. In a wide-ranging conversation, Stephanie discusses her science-backed approach to happiness, and explains how accessing our unique gifts and giving back to the community can lead to joy and fulfillment.  

As COVID-19 continues to disrupt our work, family, and social lives, showing empathy can help you navigate the adjustment to a new working environment. In this special edition episode Jen Fisher discusses the importance of empathy and shares practical information to help you show empathy with yourself and others.

On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Ximena Vengoechea, a user researcher, writer, and illustrator, about really listening to develop stronger relationships and how to train ourselves to be better listeners.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive Global’s Human Sustainability Hub and Human Sustainability Leader at Deloitte, sits down with best-selling author and executive coach Brad Stulberg, author of the new book Master Of Change: How to Excel When Everything is Changing - Including You. In their wide-ranging conversation, Brad and Jen share mindset shifts and Microsteps for embracing change, establishing routines, and navigating it all with less stress and more joy. 

Technology can make life more convenient, connected, and efficient. But with all that it gives us, could it also be taking something away? How can we use technology to enhance our well-being and not diminish it? On this episode Jen Fisher and Carolyn O’Boyle discuss strategies to maintain a healthy relationship with your technology with Amy Blankson, a leading specialist on mindful living in the digital era.

We all have dreams. Often though we get in our own way when trying to achieve them. But we have a responsibility to identify our unique purpose, to realize our dreams, and make an impact. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Saul Blinkoff, filmmaker, animator, voice actor, inspirational speaker and host of The Life of Awesome podcast, about how we all have a unique purpose and with a lot of hard work, tenacity, and resilience we can achieve our dreams.

In the future of work, artificial intelligence will take on the more repetitive and routine tasks. On this episode, Deloitte Chief Well-being Officer Jen Fisher talks with Amelia Dunlop, Deloitte Digital Chief Experience Officer & author of "Elevating the Human Experience—THREE PATHS to LOVE and WORTH at WORK", about elevating the human experience by renewing our focus on fundamental human worth & investing in individuals to nurture growth, creativity, & innovation. 

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with Karen Eber, Chief Storyteller at Eber Leadership Group and author of The Perfect Story: How to Tell Stories that Inform, Influence, and Inspire. In a wide-ranging conversation, Jen and Karen talk about the art of public speaking and share advice from their own experiences on the TEDx stage. 

Do you always feel busy, but, at the same time, unproductive? Are the things you’re doing day-to-day aligned with your values and goals? It may seem that by trying to do it all, you can have it all. But when we spread ourselves too thin, we often find that the things we are spending most of our time on aren’t actually the most important things in our lives. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses how to discover and invest in what’s essential in our lives with Greg McKeown, best-selling author, speaker, and leading voice on essentialism.

The great resignation has been a hot topic. Millions of people are quitting their jobs or plan to do so soon. Why is this happening? On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Lauren McGoodwin, founder and CEO of Career Contessa, author of the book, Power Moves: How Women Can Pivot, Reboot, and Build a Career of Purpose, and cohost of the of Career Contessa podcast.

In this WorkWell podcast by Deloitte, Jen Fisher, editor-at-large for Thrive and Deloitte’s Human Sustainability Hub, sits down with climate psychologist Renée Lertzman to discuss the emotional effects of climate change and how we can become more resilient. Lertzman, the author of Environmental Melancholia: Psychoanalytic dimensions of engagement, offers suggestions about how individuals, organizations, and leaders can work together to alleviate climate anxiety, as well as finding ways to give back and have a positive impact. 

Work and our relationship to it is evolving. As workforce demographics shift, what employees prioritize for themselves and what they expect from their employer is also changing. Two recently released Deloitte reports, the 2023 Gen Z and Millennial Survey and the 2nd Annual Well-being at Work Survey, shed light on what leaders need to do to meet these evolving expectations. On this episode, Jen Fisher, talks with Kwasi Mitchell, chief purpose and DEI officer at Deloitte, about driving purpose into organizations’ operations and identities so that the well-being of their workforce remains a priority.

Traveling for work is a common business practice. But it can sometimes take a toll on your well-being and your ability to perform at your best. What if you could become an empowered, productive road warrior, without annihilating your health? On this episode Jen Fisher discusses strategies for staying energized and resilient on the road with traveling naturopath, speaker, trainer, and author John Ayo.

To smash the mental health stigma, we first need to understand it. It’s time to move beyond mental health awareness and increase mental health literacy in the workplace. On this episode Jen Fisher talks with Rob Stephenson, a mental health influencer, speaker, and founder of InsideOut, a social enterprise focused on ending the stigma of mental health in the workplace.

Are you a creator, connoisseur, or a passive onlooker of art? No matter the answer, you may be surprised that art serves as an important tool to help enhance observation and problem-solving skills. On this episode, Jen Fisher talks with Amy Herman, a lawyer, art historian, and author of the books Visual Intelligence: Sharpen Your Perception, Change Your Life and Fixed: How to Perfect the Fine Art of Problem Solving about visual intelligence and how viewing art can improve observation, analysis, and communication skills.

Hiding or "covering" mental illness is not uncommon, especially in the workplace. How can we create a workplace culture that can empower people to take care of their mental health in the same way we encourage them to take care of their physical health? On this episode Jen Fisher and Dr. Christine Moutier, the Chief Medical Officer for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention discuss mental health in the workplace.

The absence of physical interaction brought on by COVID-19 can create a sense of an overall lack of connection between people, at work and home, which can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. In this special-edition episode Jen Fisher provides information you can use to help maintain human connection, even while being physically distant.

When we think of sports, we think of the physical training it takes to get the body in peak condition. But to win the gold medal, it takes more than fitness. It takes mental strength and focus to get you to the finish line. You don’t have to be an athlete to hone these mental skills. In fact, you can learn and practice them in your everyday life. On this episode Jen Fisher discusses the importance of mental training for peak performance with Paralympian Chris Hammer.