In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher speaks with Zach Mercurio, author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." Despite billions invested in engagement programs and wellbeing initiatives, employees are more disengaged than ever—and the problem isn't what most leaders think. This conversation reveals why mattering can't be addressed through programs and perks, and what leaders must do differently at the interaction level to help people feel truly seen, valued, and significant.

Episode Highlights:

• Why engagement is at its lowest point in a decade despite $2 billion invested in programs
• The difference between mattering, belonging, and inclusion—and why mattering is what's missing
• How we've lost the skills to care for each other after 25 years of digital communication
• The "sprinkler issues" that silently kill motivation and create learned helplessness
• Why high performers and frontline workers are most at risk of feeling invisible
• The three practices that help people feel significant: noticing, affirming, and showing they're needed
• Why you can't give effective feedback to someone who doesn't first feel that they matter to you
• How showing others they matter actually regenerates your own sense of significance

Quotable Moment

"You don't show people that they matter in spite of their low performance. You show people that they matter so that you can regenerate their energy and confidence to perform well." - Zach Mercurio

Lyra Lens:

Sarah Haggerty, Clinical Psychologist and Neuroscientist at Lyra Health, explores the practical skills managers need to notice when someone's struggling and how to check in appropriately. She also breaks down the concept of "10% more depth" in workplace relationships.

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.