The Growth Project

Our podcast episode today offers an eye-opening discussion about mental health in the workplace. We have the pleasure to converse with Tersia Woodenberg, a seasoned professional in the field of training, education and holistic counselling.  Tersia takes us on an inspiring journey through her personal struggles with mental health, underlining the importance of empathy and emotional intelligence in leadership roles.

How do we maintain a professional standard while grappling with emotional turmoil? We tackle this question head-on, as Tersia and I traverse the path of effective leadership and overcoming personal shortcomings.  We stress how fostering a learning culture, promoting innovative thinking, and seeking guidance from everyone in the team is essential for growth.  Together, we delve into the critical role of emotional intelligence and seamless communication in nourishing leadership skills.

Imagine a workspace where every team member is conscious of their colleagues' emotional wellbeing.  We explore this concept of community consciousness within a team, highlighting its profound benefits to the workplace environment.  Tersia shares her invaluable insights into comprehending team dynamics and nurturing a culture of open dialogue and acceptance.

We also discuss the dire need for organisations to prioritise mental health and find ways to integrate it into the induction process.  In this episode, we also get real about the signs of mental health struggles and how to use "I statements" for understanding and resolution.  Join us as we embark on this journey towards a safer, healthier work culture.

You can check out Tersia's work at www.soulcheck.co.nz

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

How would you feel if you could unlock a treasure trove of creativity, unique perspectives, and untapped potential in your team? Get ready to discover the power of neurodiversity in the workplace. In this episode, we unravel the complexities of supporting neurodivergent team members, highlighting the intricacies of ADHD, autism, and dyslexia. Tune in as we offer key insights into recognizing these traits and implementing strategies to ensure your team not only survives but thrives.

Imagine a workplace where every individual's unique capabilities and strengths are welcomed and celebrated. We dive into the challenges and strengths associated with neurodivergent individuals, exploring the impact of ADHD, ASD, and Dyslexia on their work life.  Remember, diversity is not a hindrance; it's an asset waiting to be leveraged.

Building a supportive and inclusive work culture is not an option; it's a necessity. This episode sheds light on creating a workplace environment that fosters neurodiversity. We bring you practical tips and resources to foster and accommodate neurodivergent workers, emphasizing the importance of a sensitive and discreet approach. The episode closes with a highlight on the Neurodiversity Hub website, a valuable resource for employers.  So join us as we change the narrative and redefine the workplace norm. The journey towards an embracing and inclusive environment starts here.

Helpful Resources: Neurodiversity Hub

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

Can leadership principles buffer the blow of financial stress in the workplace? That's a thought-provoking question we are set to interrogate in this engaging episode. We kick off the conversation with an exploration of Australian entrepreneur Tim Gurner's controversial comments on economic pain and unemployment rates, hinting at the need for a reset in the employment landscape.  

In this episode, we highlight the power of words in shaping public opinion and their influence on employer-employee relationships.

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

Imagine if conflict wasn't a negative force at your workplace, but a catalyst for innovation and better decision making?  That's right, this episode will upend everything you think you know about conflict.  We'll look at its triggers, delve into how it manifests in the workplace, and refute common misconceptions.   We'll also explore the toll it can take on emotions, leading to stress and burnout, and discuss ways to handle these challenges.  This is not about winning or losing, but about understanding conflict as an integral part of human interaction that can open doors to growth when managed thoughtfully.

Ever wondered how to build resilience through collaboration? We got you! In this episode, we'll walk you through the power of emotional intelligence, problem-solving acumen, and strong communication skills in fostering resilience in tough times. We'll illustrate how setting aside past differences, leveraging individual strengths, and adapting to change can transform your workplace conflicts into opportunities for innovation. You'll learn how collaboration can lead to increased creativity and trust, and optimize your resources, giving your business a strategic edge. So buckle up for an enlightening conversation that can revolutionise your approach to conflict and resilience.

Check out my appearance on Major Convos!

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

Ever wondered why your feedback isn't producing the results you anticipate, or why team morale takes a hit every time you offer a critique?  Fret not, as this episode promises to illuminate the path to mastering the art of effective feedback. We dissect the notorious feedback sandwich model in all its glory and fallacy, shedding light on its benefits and potential pitfalls.

As we move forward, we journey into the world of the Situation-Behavior-Impact feedback model, a change of course that's sure to transform the way you communicate with your team.  This method encourages dialogues, boosts accountability, and paves the way for personal and professional growth. 

We'll equip you with the essential ground rules, teach you how to focus on the behaviour and not the person, and show you how feedback can evolve into a powerful tool to forge a culture of continuous improvement within your team. Tune in, and let's revolutionize the way you give feedback!

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

Have you ever felt caught in the gray areas of employment law?  Are you unsure how to tackle performance management effectively?  Join me as I sit down with Natasha Hannah, an experienced employment lawyer and HR specialist, to navigate these uncharted waters.  Natasha brings a unique 'less lawyer, more human' approach from her journey of starting her own law firm, with invaluable insights from working in both private practice and in-house. We unravel the importance of understanding employment law, especially for small businesses and contractors, and discuss how to comply with set rules and regulations.

Performance management can be a tricky landscape to navigate, but with Natasha's guidance, we delve into the nuances of informal and formal methods.  We tackle the challenging scenario of addressing an underperforming employee, and the transition from an informal chat to a more formal management process.  Backing up a termination can be a legal minefield, and we discuss the importance of gathering substantial evidence and the resources available to streamline the process. 

Moving beyond the black and white of law, we explore the human element in the workplace.  Natasha and I discuss the importance of providing flexibility to team members, emphasizing that valuing output over hours worked can create a more supportive and productive environment.  Drawing from Natasha's personal experience as a working parent, we stress the need to consider the whole cycle from pregnancy to parental leave and returning to work.  With cost-effective ways to offer flexibility, we encourage business leaders to provide meaningful support to their team.  

So, tune in and let's redefine the world of work together!

Contact details for Natasha:

• Email - [email protected]
• LinkedIn
• Website - in house nous

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

As someone who's known Chad Murdoch for more than two decades - I can say with certainty - Chad's wisdom on leadership and relationship building, has been of great benefit to me.  This episode is a testament to that.  We took a deep dive into leadership and business ownership challenges, how to build trust, and the importance of emotional intelligence.   We shared stories, laughed, and at times got serious discussing the tough times and how those experiences shaped us. 

Ever wondered how to maintain the delicate balance of personal and professional life as a business owner?  Chad's insights are valuable, as he shares his secrets on managing a flexible work schedule, motivation, and financial investment.   We also touched upon everyday leadership, and Chad made a compelling case about the power of taking small steps every day.  He shares how he has maintained relationships amid the demands of business and personal accountability. 

One of the most interesting parts of our conversation was when we delved into the connection between parenting and leadership.  Chad opened up about his experience of managing his ego and emotional intelligence in both areas of his life.  We also talked about the importance of staying connected with friends and the mental health benefits it brings.  This is much more than a conversation - it's a deep, thoughtful reflection on life and leadership that you wouldn't want to miss.

Please subscribe so you don't miss anything, and share the podcast to anyone you think would benefit from tuning in! 

www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

Ever felt that knot in your stomach knowing you have to face a difficult conversation? Don't worry, we've all been there - but there's a way to navigate these murky waters without sinking your relationships.  On this episode of The Growth Project, we look into the art of managing tricky discussions, specifically focusing on how the simple yet powerful 'I' statements can keep conversational detours at bay.

We break down the anatomy of an 'I' statement, offering a practical tool that can effectively express your thoughts and concerns without casting blame or judgement.  So gear up to bolster your relationships through the courage of facing difficult conversations head-on, and remember - courage, empathy, and evolved communication skills are your best allies in this journey!

Negotiate Anything Podcast - by Kwame Christian (American Negotiation Institute)

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www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

On this episode, I answer a few questions sent through via email.

I’ll continue with Q&A episodes occasionally as questions come through, please feel free to email me at [email protected]

Please subscribe so you don't miss anything, and share the podcast to anyone you think would benefit from tuning in! 

www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]

The demands of leadership can be overwhelming, and mismanaged stress can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and impaired decision-making.   Leaders who can manage their stress and energy effectively are better equipped to handle challenging situations, maintain their focus and clarity, and make sound decisions that benefit their teams and businesses.

Additionally, leaders who model healthy stress management behaviors can positively impact the well-being of their teams and create a culture of wellness within their business.

To expand on this discussion, I recommend listening to the following episodes of the Huberman Lab podcast:

• Master Stress: Tools for Managing Stress & Anxiety
• Dr. Robert Sapolsky: Science of Stress, Testosterone & Free Will

Please subscribe so you don't miss anything, and share the podcast to anyone you think would benefit from tuning in! 

www.growthproject.com.au
Contact: [email protected]