In this conversation, Luke sits down with Dan Kessler, President of Energage, the HR tech company that runs the Top Workplaces program to explore what it really takes to become a top workplace. Drawing from over two decades of experience and data from thousands of organizations, Dan unpacks the Energage culture pyramid, busts common myths about culture-building, and shares the actionable insights leaders need to drive engagement and performance. You’ll hear why culture isn’t just HR’s job, how feedback becomes a competitive advantage, and how Mo and Energage are partnering to equip managers in the moments that matter.

[00:27] About Energage and Its Purpose

[02:18] Energage's Culture Pyramid Methodology

[06:21] Driving Improvement and Benchmarking

[10:30] What It Takes to Be a Top Workplace

[12:12] The Starting Point for a New Chief People Officer

[16:16] Blind Spots and Misperceptions in Culture Building

[20:25] Key Levers for Driving Cultural Change

[21:28] Equipping Managers for Change

[24:16] Customer Transformation Stories

[26:01] Business Success: Employee Engagement as Equity Value Driver

[27:10] One Piece of Advice for Leaders

In this episode of Culture in Action, Luke speaks to Kelly Johnson, the People and Culture Manager at Crowne Plaza Newcastle. Kelly shares her insights on transforming workplace culture, discussing the practical steps taken to address challenges like high employee turnover and poor communication. The conversation highlights the importance of rethinking communication rhythms, focusing on recognition, and emphasising work-life balance, all leading to improved employee engagement, better performance, and stronger business results. Kelly's journey offers actionable insights for anyone in hospitality, HR, or passionate about creating positive workplaces.

00:00 Introduction to Culture in Action

00:53 Meet Kelly Johnson: A Journey in Hospitality

03:28 Defining Workplace Culture

04:36 Transforming Culture Post-COVID

06:53 Practical Steps for Cultural Transformation

14:32 Overcoming Barriers and Sustaining Change

22:33 Impact on Business Performance

25:54 Key Takeaways for HR Leaders

27:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Culture in Action, Luke speaks to Alex Goodanew, Employee Engagement Manager at OVO Energy, about how OVO has integrated Agile methodologies into its operational and customer service teams. Alex discusses the company's innovative approach to change, fostering a culture of psychological safety, recognition, and the effective use of Agile rituals. OVO's approach has led to significant improvements in customer metrics, employee engagement scores, and overall culture.

Welcome to Culture in Action, the podcast where real stories meet real impact. Each episode shines a light on the people and practices driving workplace culture forward, from bold leadership moves to everyday moments that build belonging. Whether you're a people leader, culture champion, or simply curious about what makes teams thrive, this is your space to learn, reflect, and get inspired.