Built to Belong

We all react, but not all reactions serve us. In this episode, we explore how predictable emotional responses can quietly undermine your influence, drain your energy, and shape how others engage with you at work. From game theory to subtle workplace dynamics, we unpack why non-reactivity isn’t passivity - it’s power. You'll walk away with practical questions to pause, protect your focus, and respond like a leader.

Gratitude is often dismissed as soft or optional. But neuroscience tells a different story. In this episode, we explore how appreciation influences the brain, why it can reduce stress, strengthen social connection, and help us think more clearly, and why small moments of recognition matter more than we realize at work.

Sources:

This episode draws on research in neuroscience, psychology, and organizational behavior. The studies below informed the ideas discussed in this episode.

• Fox, G. R., Kaplan, J., Damasio, H., & Damasio, A. (2015). Neural correlates of gratitude. Frontiers in Psychology. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01491
• Kini, P., Wong, J., McInnis, S., Gabana, N., & Brown, J. W. (2016). The effects of gratitude expression on neural activity. NeuroImage.
• Algoe, S. B. (2012). Find, remind, and bind: The functions of gratitude in everyday relationships. Social and Personality Psychology Compass.
• Kosfeld, M., Heinrichs, M., Zak, P. J., Fischbacher, U., & Fehr, E. (2005). Oxytocin increases trust in humans. Nature.
• Edmondson, A. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly.

Why does being left out actually hurt? In this episode, we break down the neuroscience of belonging: How your brain responds to connection, why exclusion triggers stress, and what simple cues create safety and trust at work.

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This episode draws on research in social neuroscience and organizational psychology. While I’m not a scientist, all claims are grounded in peer-reviewed studies and credible workplace research.

• Eisenberger, N. I., Lieberman, M. D., & Williams, K. D. (2003). Does rejection hurt? An fMRI study of social exclusion. Science, 302(5643), 290-292.

• Baumeister, R. F., & Leary, M. R. (1995). The need to belong: Desire for interpersonal attachments as a fundamental human motivation. Psychological Bulletin, 117(3), 497-529.

• Kosfeld, M., Heinrichs, M., Zak, P. J., Fischbacher, U., & Fehr, E. (2005). Oxytocin increases trust in humans. Nature, 435(7042), 673-676.

• Heinrichs, M., von Dawans, B., & Domes, G. (2009). Oxytocin, vasopressin, and human social behavior. Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 30(4), 548-557.

• Edmondson, A. (1999). Psychological safety and learning behavior in work teams. Administrative Science Quarterly, 44(2), 350-383.

• Google Re:Work (2015). Project Aristotle: The five keys to a successful Google team.

• Baumeister, R. F., et al. (2001). Bad is stronger than good. Review of General Psychology, 5(4), 323-370.

• Decety, J., & Jackson, P. L. (2004). The functional architecture of human empathy. Behavioral and Cognitive Neuroscience Reviews, 3(2), 71-100.

• BetterUp (2019). The Value of Belonging at Work: Why Inclusion and Belonging Drive Business Results.

In this episode, we explore the Authority Gap, the invisible yet pervasive barrier that affects how authority is perceived and respected based on gender. We discuss the real-world impact of this gap, from workplace biases to leadership challenges, backed by research and personal insights. The conversation dives into systemic issues, the psychological toll on women, and practical strategies for individuals, organizations, and allies to create more inclusive and equitable workplaces.

In this episode, we discuss the concept of “masking” in the workplace. Masking is when individuals, especially neurodivergent people, suppress parts of themselves to align with social expectations. We explore what masking looks like, why people feel compelled to do it, and the emotional toll it can take. We cover research that reveals the unique masking experiences of autistic, non-autistic neurodivergent, and neurotypical individuals, and what we can do to create a more inclusive environment.

The political landscape is shifting, and so is the conversation around inclusion. With new challenges on the horizon, companies are rethinking their approach – some scaling back, others adapting to survive. In this episode, we explore how businesses are navigating the pressure, the impact of legal and cultural shifts, and what the future holds for workplace inclusion. Will inclusion evolve, or is it at risk of disappearing? Tune in to find out.

In this episode, we’re tackling a topic that affects nearly everyone: burnout. Burnout isn’t just about being tired. It’s a serious psychological condition caused by chronic workplace stress. We break down the signs and symptoms, explore its root causes (from excessive workloads to lack of support), and highlight its impact on individuals and organizations.

We also discuss actionable strategies to prevent and address burnout, including creating supportive workplace cultures, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. Whether you’re a leader or an employee, this episode offers insights and tips to help you recognize burnout and take steps toward a healthier, more balanced work life.

In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of high-context vs. low-context communication styles and how they shape workplace interactions. We explore how cultural differences in communication can lead to misunderstandings and how awareness of these styles can foster stronger collaboration.

Using relatable examples, we highlight practical strategies to bridge communication gaps. Tune in for actionable tips on adapting your style, building rapport, and creating a more welcoming and effective workplace.

In this episode, we explore the concept of racial microaggressions – subtle but impactful comments or actions that reinforce racial biases. Drawing from recent research, we unpack the different types of microaggressions, from assumptions about cultural differences to dismissive “color-blind” attitudes.

Through real-life examples, we discuss the emotional and physical toll these interactions have on people of color and share strategies for coping and allyship. This conversation sheds light on why understanding microaggressions is essential to creating more inclusive environments, whether at work, school, or in everyday interactions.

In this episode, host Shaimaa El Ghazali and Belong365’s President Erich Toll discuss how businesses can lead the way in advancing belonging when leadership falls short in light of the recent political tensions. Learn why inclusivity is not just a moral imperative but a strategic advantage, and how companies can navigate societal divisions, economic concerns, and consumer expectations to create a positive impact.