Truth, Lies and Work

In this episode, we're joined by Chris Savage, the innovative founder and CEO of Wistia. 

From his early days studying film to building a multimillion-dollar company, Chris shares his journey with a mix of humility and wisdom. We delve into the challenges he faced starting Wistia and how setting realistic goals played a crucial role in the company's growth. 

Chris emphasises the significance of a strong, positive company culture and believes in making work fun. He talks about the pivotal role of core values in decision-making, Wistia's unique approach to remote work, and the art of hiring the right people. 

Key Talking Points:

Tune in for an insightful conversation full of practical advice and inspiring stories. A must-listen episode for growth-focused business leaders!

Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjsavage/

Learn more about Wistia: https://wistia.com/

Listen to Chris’ Podcast ‘Talking to Loud’: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-too-loud-with-chris-savage/id1525785118

Stella Smith: How pirkx is Redefining Employee Benefits:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/wellbeing-and-pirkx-with-stella-smith_1894/

Maneesh K Goyal: How 9/11 Inspired a New American Dream

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/56-othered-to-empowered-maneesh-k-goyal-and-the-american-dream_2466/

Michael Girdley: How a $100m+ Founder is Revolutionising Tomorrow’s Workplace

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/64-how-a-100m-founder-is-revolutionising-tomorrows-workplace_2523/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: [email protected]

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

In this episode of "Truth Lies & Workplace Culture," we tackle the intricate and often hidden issue of workplace trauma, a subject that remains shrouded in misunderstanding and silence.

With the expertise of our special guests from the BBC and RSPCA, we explore the various forms and nuances of trauma that can permeate work environments.

Our discussion opens with a deep dive into what constitutes workplace trauma, examining not only the overt incidents but also the subtle, chronic stressors that can lead to lasting psychological impact.

We then tackle the unique challenges faced in high-pressure sectors like media and non-profit organisations, with personal insights from our guests painting a vivid picture of the reality behind the scenes.

As the conversation progresses, we delve into the critical but often overlooked signs of unrecognised trauma in the workplace, with a detailed exploration of the symptoms employees may unknowingly exhibit and the cultural factors that can contribute to a culture of silence around mental health issues.

Our guests from the BBC and RSPCA share their experiences and observations, providing listeners with a nuanced understanding of how trauma can manifest in different sectors and the importance of acknowledging and addressing these issues.

This episode is not just an eye-opener but a call to action, urging a transformation in how we perceive, respond to, and prevent workplace trauma.

BBC guide to trauma: https://www.bbc.co.uk/safety/health/mental-health/

RSPCA: https://www.rspca.org.uk/home

Why These 7 Leadership Books Require Your Attention:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/the-7-books-leaders-should-be-reading_1999/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of hospitality, restaurant culture, and the changing landscape of the food industry. Our guest, Patti Simpson, is a seasoned professional who has played a pivotal role in reshaping the culture and policies at Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG), the company behind iconic restaurants like Shake Shack. Join us as we ask the tough questions and explore the dynamics of an industry in transformation.

Tough Questions & Industry Transformations

Get ready for the challenging questions. We ask Patti about the decision-making processes during the pandemic, including the controversial topic of employee layoffs. We explore the reasoning behind USHG's vaccination-only policy and discuss the potential role of technology, like robots and AI, in the future of hospitality. We also address the sensitive issue of tip policies in the industry.

As the conversation unfolds, we examine the evolving landscape of restaurant culture and what it means for both employees and customers. Patti shares insights into how USHG is adapting and innovating to meet the changing needs of the industry.

Listen to witness firsthand how organisations like USHG are committed to continuous improvement.

Union Square Hospitality Group website: https://www.ushg.com/

Find out more about USHG's Hospitality Quotient: https://hq.ushg.com/

Connect with Patti Simpson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattisimpson/

Danny Meyer's Book, Setting the Table: The Transforming Power of Hospitality in Business. https://www.harpercollins.com/products/setting-the-table-danny-meyer?variant=32122420363298

Why These 7 Leadership Books Require Your Attention:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/the-7-books-leaders-should-be-reading_1999/

How to Recruit for Culture Fit (HINT: Don't)

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/how-to-recruit-for-culture-fit_2226/

Why Women in Leadership Matters, A Case Study with MKG

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/women-in-leadership-mkg_2355/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_hIyk9KjxJQ1lZWhiaqDw

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of sports, leadership, and the critical aspect of mental health.

Our guests include former Premier League Football, Clarke Carlisle, and his wife, Carrie. England Rugby International, Shaughna Brown, and Single Handed Ocean Racing Sailor, Pip Hare.

Each brings a wealth of experience in elite environments and how training a champion mindset is critical to success - in sports, leadership and life.

Join the conversation as we explore various facets of the champion mindset, covering topics such as building resilience and the telltale signs that indicate when you might be struggling.

Our conversation al delves into the differences in communication styles, particularly when transitioning from the sports field to leadership roles in the workplace.

Finally, our discussion centers around the crucial issue of women in sports and the ongoing journey towards equality in the field, before examining what it means to be a leader, drawing from our guest's extensive experience and knowledge.

Join us in this engaging conversation as we uncover the keys to unlocking the champion mindset, all while emphasising the vital importance of mental health in sports, leadership, and life.

Follow Clarke & Carrie Carlisle:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarke-carlisle-and-carrie-carlisle-765aa749/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clarkeandcarriecarlisle/

Follow Shaughna Brown:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaunaghbrown/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/shaunaghbrown?lang=en

Follow Pip Hare

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pip-hare-ocean-racing-87901617/

Twitter: https://www.instagram.com/piphareoceanracing/?hl=en

Former Premier League Footballer, Ryan Briggs, chatting Financial Well-being

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/55-protecting-financial-well-being-amid-the-cost-of-living-crisis_2464/

7-time Dublin GAA Winner, Bernard Brogan, on Founding PepTalk

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep48-from-champion-to-entrepreneur-with-bernard-brogan_2445/

How Sports Psychology Coined The Superstar Effect:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/superstar-hires-silent-culture-killers_1899/

You'll find all our past episodes on our website: https://truthliesandwork.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_hIyk9KjxJQ1lZWhiaqDw

The Future of Work and Building Businesses with Michael Girdley

In this episode, Al talks to Michael Girdley about the future of work, the importance of integrity and loyalty, and the impact of technology on employment.

They also discuss the role of generational differences in the workplace, the value of learning how to learn, and the potential of large language models.

Michael shares personal stories and insights from his experience as a leader and entrepreneur, providing valuable advice and perspectives on various topics.

Advanced EDI for Leaders

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/62-from-bystander-to-ally-how-to-avoid-deib-washing_2514/

Building Resilient Workplaces

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep40-building-resilient-workplaces-the-triple-defence-approach-to-mental-health-in-action_2295/

The 4-Day Work Week - THE Trend of 2024?

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/4-day-work-week-for-business-owners-and-leaders_2251/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_hIyk9KjxJQ1lZWhiaqDw

In this episode, we're peeling back the curtain on what the global leaders know about 2024 that you might not. These lessons aren't just insightful; they're game-changers for your organisation.

We're thrilled to welcome our expert panel:

Join the conversation as we explore what global leaders know (that you don't!)

Focus on Mental Health:

The importance of mental health at the workplace has skyrocketed, and leading organisations are prioritising it like never before. We'll explore why this shift is happening and how it's transforming the way we work.

Create Inclusive Workplaces:

Inclusivity is more than just a buzzword; it's a business imperative. We'll uncover why global leaders are doubling down on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, and how this benefits both employees and the bottom line.

Develop a Shared Purpose:

Successful organisations are rallying their teams around a common mission, and it's driving extraordinary results. We'll delve into why having a shared purpose is crucial and how it can energize your workforce.

Have Great Managers:

The global leaders understand that managers can make or break a company. We'll explore the qualities that make a manager truly exceptional and how they can elevate your organisation.

Connect with Justin Boxall from Mars

https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-boxall-5777a637/

Connect with Kimberley Ward from First Direct

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberley-ward-she-her-79a824b1/

Connect with Prabha Vijayakumar from NHS England

https://www.linkedin.com/in/prabha-vijayakumar-3b909555/

Connect with Malcolm Staves from L’Oreal 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/malcolm-staves-fiirsm-ficheme-7a89077/

Connect with Francoise Woolley from ACAS

https://www.linkedin.com/in/francoisewoolley/

Connect with Amy McKeown

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymckeownuk/

Website & Newsletter: https://makeadifference.media/

MAD World Summit: https://madworldsummit.com/

Book Your Tickets for The Watercooler 2024: https://www.watercoolerevent.com/

Audio recordings of the conference sessions from the MAD World Summit and DE&I Symposium: https://madworldsummit.com/

More from Kimberley on Not Being Defined by Disability

https://makeadifference.media/mental/at-first-direct-im-not-defined-by-my-disability-this-has-had-such-a-positive-impact-on-my-wellbeing-productivity/

More from Malcolm on Well-being and ESG

https://makeadifference.media/culture/wellbeing-and-esg/

More from Francoise on Reasonable Adjustments

https://makeadifference.media/mental/much-needed-new-guidance-around-reasonable-adjustments-for-mental-health-is-launched/

Advanced EDI for Leaders

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/62-from-bystander-to-ally-how-to-avoid-deib-washing_2514/

Building Resilient Workplaces

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/ep40-building-resilient-workplaces-the-triple-defence-approach-to-mental-health-in-action_2295/

The 4-Day Work Week - THE Trend of 2024?

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/4-day-work-week-for-business-owners-and-leaders_2251/

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Email: [email protected]

Book a Call with Al & Leanne: https://oblonghq.com/book/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_hIyk9KjxJQ1lZWhiaqDw

Today, we're taking our DEIB conversation to the next level. We'll explore what it truly means to be an ally, the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, and the pitfalls of DEI washing.

Joining us are four incredible experts who will shed light on these crucial topics.

• Allyship is more than just a buzzword. Our first guest, Shelley O'Connor, LGBTQ+ Co-Chair at The Bank of England, shares insights on what it means to be an ally in 2023 and beyond. We discuss the actions that go beyond passive support and how individuals and organisations can make a real impact.

• Feeling a sense of belonging is fundamental to DEIB efforts. In this segment, we're joined by Farhana Kuddus, a global leader in DEI. Together, we delve into why belonging is the heart of DEI and explore the strategies to create inclusive environments where everyone feels valued.

• DEI washing is a term that's been gaining attention. Jessica Schibli, Interim Head of Creative Diversity at the BBC, helps us understand the importance of representation in DEI and the difference between authentic DEI efforts and surface-level actions.

Data-led DEI - Leveraging Insights for Change

• Data is a powerful tool for DEI initiatives. Kulbir Sergill, Director of Social Inclusion at University of Warwick, shares how organisations can leverage data-driven approaches to make meaningful change.

Culture-led DEI - Nurturing Inclusivity From Within

• In our final segment, we discuss culture-led DEI with our experts. We explore how organizational culture plays a crucial role in fostering DEI and how leaders can lead by example. Our guests provide actionable tips for creating lasting change.

We hope this episode inspires you to take meaningful actions and embrace DEIB in your personal and professional life.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-oconnor29/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kulbir-shergill-31618424/

https://twitter.com/JSchibli

https://www.linkedin.com/in/farhanakuddus/

Website & Newsletter: https://makeadifference.media/

MAD World Summit: https://madworldsummit.com/

Book Your Tickets for The Watercooler 2024: https://www.watercoolerevent.com/

Audio recordings of the conference sessions from the MAD World Summit and DE&I Symposium: https://madworldsummit.com/

Tips to Create and Employee Resource Group:

https://makeadifference.media/mental/tips-to-create-an-effective-mental-health-employee-resource-group/

How to be an Ally to LGBTQ+ Colleagues

https://makeadifference.media/newsletter/how-to-be-an-ally-to-lgbtq-colleagues-on-the-path-to-parenthood/

Confessions of Warner Bros. Chief DEI Officer, Asif Sadiq

https://makeadifference.media/social/i-get-called-out-a-lot-everyone-expects-me-to-be-perfect-on-diversity-but-truth-is-im-not-no-one-is/

EDI 101 For Leaders

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/edi-101-for-leaders_2340/

Toxic Workplace Cultures

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/toxic-workplace-culture_1887/

Coverage of the MAD World Summit 2023

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/61-future-of-mental-health-at-work-surprising-trends-from-the-6th-mad-world-summit_2499/

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthlieswork/

We’re bringing you this episode in collaboration with the MAD World Summit and Make a Difference Media (www.makeadifference.media), the all year around media channel that supports both MAD World and its sister event The Watercooler, which regular listeners will remember us attending in April 2023 (see Episode 37!)

We had the privilege of being the official podcast for the 6th MAD World Summit, where we engaged with numerous business leaders, campaigners, and thought leaders. Through these conversations, we've identified six major trends that are reshaping the landscape of mental health in the workplace.

Join the conversation as we explore:

Website & Newsletter: https://makeadifference.media/

MAD World Summit: https://madworldsummit.com/

Book Your Tickets for The Watercooler 2024: https://www.watercoolerevent.com/

Isabel Berwick on The Great Resignation:

https://makeadifference.media/mental/from-great-resignation-to-recession-a-look-back-at-2022-and-whats-next-on-the-horizon-for-workplace-wellbeing-takeaways-from-the-webinar/

Jeremy Gautrey-Jones on Managing Trauma at Work:

https://makeadifference.media/mental/managing-trauma-at-work/

https://makeadifference.media/mental/at-first-direct-im-not-defined-by-my-disability-this-has-had-such-a-positive-impact-on-my-wellbeing-productivity/

Francoise on Reasonable Adjustments:

https://makeadifference.media/mental/much-needed-new-guidance-around-reasonable-adjustments-for-mental-health-is-launched/

The Watercooler 2023:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/the-watercooler-conference-podcast_2252/

Well-being 2.0:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/wellbeing-2-0_2385/

Lessons from Corporate Giants:

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/lessons-from-corporate-giants_2367/

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthlieswork/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/truthlieswork

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/truthlieswork

Email: hello@truthliesandwork

Truth, Lies and Workplace Culture has always been about fostering open and honest conversations. Today, on World Mental Health Day, we're taking a step back from our usual format to share something deeply personal – our own mental health journeys.

Al and Leanne I first crossed paths as volunteers for Samaritans, a listening service that provides invaluable support to those who need it most. It was here that we found our shared passion for helping others access mental health resources and the importance of having a safe space to talk.

In this episode, we're peeling back the layers to reveal the stories behind the smiles. We're going to share our own experiences with mental health challenges, including moments of anxiety, burnout, and the immense pressure society often places on men to achieve success.

But, amidst the struggles, we'll also discuss the pivotal moments that led us to seek help, the support systems that made a difference, and the small steps we've taken towards improving our mental well-being.

We hope that by opening up about our own journeys, we can contribute to the broader conversation surrounding mental health and inspire our listeners to prioritise their mental well-being too.

So, join us for this candid and heartfelt conversation about mental health. We believe that sharing our stories can help break down the stigma and encourage others to seek the support they need.

Thank you for tuning in.

Resources

If you're feeling in distress or dispair, including suicidal feelings, please do consider contating The Samaritans.

Call Free from the UK on 116 123

Email: [email protected]

Try the Samaritans Self-Help App: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/self-help/

Preventing Burnout

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/burnout-the-pandemic-part-1_1952/

Well-being 2.0: The Future of Well-being at Work

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/wellbeing-2-0_2385/

Help with Imposter Syndrome

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/what-is-imposter-syndrome_1988/

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthlieswork/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/truthlieswork

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/truthlieswork

Email: hello@truthliesandwork

In today's episode, we've got a real treat for you. We're diving deep into the world of corporate nonsense, and we've brought in a true expert on the subject, Martin Lindstrom, author of "The Ministry of Common Sense: How to Eliminate Bureaucratic Red Tape, Bad Excuses, and Corporate BS." Martin is here to help us navigate the treacherous waters of corporate nonsense and chart a course towards a more sensible, purpose-driven, and empathetic business world.

We hope you enjoyed this eye-opening conversation with Martin Lindstrom. Remember, eliminating corporate BS starts with awareness and a commitment to change. By auditing your business, embracing purpose, and fostering empathy, you can create a workplace that makes common sense the common practice.

Read The Ministry of Common Sense: https://www.martinlindstrom.com/ministry-of-commonsense/

Is the Office Making a Comeback?!

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/is-the-office-making-a-comeback_2314/

The 4-Day Work Week

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/4-day-work-week-for-business-owners-and-leaders_2251/

Edit Your Ego: Unlock Leadership Potential by Putting Employees at the Heart of the Story

https://truthliesandwork.com/truth-lies-work-podcast/edit-your-ego_2276/

Connect with Al and Leanne

Join the Conversation on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork/

Connect with Al on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott/

Connect with Leanne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthlieswork/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/truthlieswork

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/truthlieswork

Email: hello@truthliesandwork