Are you searching for true belonging at work without sacrificing who you are?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Happier at Work podcast, Aoife O’Brien is joined by Dr. Beth Kaplan, one of the world’s leading belonging experts and a passionate researcher of human connection in the workplace. Beth candidly shares her personal journey, from navigating toxic leadership and workplace trauma to redefining the concept of belonging as an “innate desire to be part of something greater than ourselves without sacrificing who we are.” Together, Aoife and Beth discuss why so many high-achievers feel like outsiders at work, how values underpin our sense of belonging, and practical steps for embracing authenticity while thriving in professional environments.

In This Episode, You’ll Discover:

1. The importance of defining belonging as showing up authentically and not sacrificing your core self to fit in.
2. Why workplace belonging is complex and different from both inclusion and exclusion.
3. The significance of identifying and living by your personal values to determine if a workplace environment is truly for you.
4. The risks of companies using “family” language without living up to the expectation of care and loyalty.

Related Topics Covered:

Values at work, Imposter Syndrome, Workplace Trauma

Connect with Aoife O’Brien | Host of Happier at Work®:

1. Website
2. LinkedIn
3. YouTube

Connect with Dr. Beth Kaplan | Global Voice on Belonging, Learning & Leadership:

1. LinkedIn
2. Website
3. Facebook
4. Instagram
5. X

Related Episodes You’ll Love:

Episode 184: A Framework for Building Happier Work Cultures with Aoife O’Brien

Episode 195: Workplace Culture Dynamics creating a positive Work Environment with Caroline Collins

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.

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