In this episode of "The Research Says," Eileen explores the fascinating science behind why most training fails and what actually makes learning stick. Drawing from cutting-edge research and insights from Rebecca Wheaton at Cadent Gas, this episode reveals why experiential learning isn't just more effective - it's the key to transforming workplace conversations and building genuine confidence.

What You'll Discover: 

• Why people retain just 5% from lectures but 75% from hands-on practice - the shocking truth about traditional training 

• David Kolb's four-stage learning cycle and why most training stops at step one 

• How "Pandora's Box" fears prevent managers from having crucial conversations and what breaks through this barrier • Evidence from pharmacy and veterinary schools showing experiential learning creates kinder, more confident professionals 

• Why even the best experiential learning needs reinforcement - the neuroscience of forgetting and remembering 

• How Cadent Gas achieved 98% manager recommendation rates through actor-based training and follow-up support

 • The practical challenge: how to test experiential learning principles with your own family

Connect with Eileen 

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: @eileendonnelly 

Instagram: @rippleandcouk 

YouTube: https://bit.ly/4kvXNta

Subscribe to the Work and Wellbeing Podcast for more evidence-based workplace wellbeing insights.

Rebecca Eaton is Head of Occupational Health and Wellbeing at Cadent Gas, bringing over 30 years of experience in occupational health and wellbeing. She leads wellbeing initiatives in a high-risk, male-dominated industry where over 70% of operational roles are filled by men who transport gas across the UK. Rebecca is passionate about creating psychological safety and has implemented innovative training approaches to build manager confidence in mental health conversations.

Key Insights 

• Psychological safety means more than speaking up about safety - it's feeling safe to be authentic and admit when you're not feeling your best 

• In high-risk industries, the "superhero culture" can prevent workers from admitting fatigue or personal struggles, creating dangerous situations 

• Managers want to help with mental health conversations but lack confidence and fear "opening Pandora's box" 

• Immersive training with actors creates sustained behaviour change because learning is attached to real feelings and experiences 

• Preventative mental health approaches through everyday conversations are more effective than reactive responses 

• Follow-up coaching and peer learning groups are essential for embedding new conversation skills long-term • The winter months create particularly high demand and pressure in gas networks, making psychological safety even more critical

Connect with Eileen 

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: @eileendonnelly 

Instagram: @rippleandcouk

Connect with Rebecca

LinkedIn: @rebeccaeaton

Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Ripple and Co on Spotify YouTube: Ripple and Co on YouTube Apple Podcasts: Work & Wellbeing Podcast on Apple

Subscribe to the Work and Wellbeing Podcast for more evidence-based workplace wellbeing insights.

In this episode of "The Research Says," Eileen explores the fascinating science behind reflection and its profound impact on workplace wellbeing. Drawing from recent research and insights from health and wellbeing manager Michael Fitzgibbon at Balfour Beatty, this episode reveals why taking time to pause and reflect isn't just philosophical - it's biologically essential for mental health and performance.

What You'll Discover:

• How just one week of reflection diaries can measurably improve your relationships and sense of purpose

• Why reflection without feedback can actually be dangerous - insights from Special Forces training show isolation leads people to give up

• Evidence from healthcare showing reflection reduces burnout, improves job satisfaction, and enhances patient care

• The powerful combination of reflection and nature exposure for maximum stress reduction benefits

• How five minutes of daily reflection can transform your relationship with work by connecting daily actions to meaningful goals

Connect with Eileen 

Email: ⁠[email protected]⁠ 

LinkedIn: @eileendonnelly 

Instagram: @rippleandcouk

YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/4kvXNta⁠

Subscribe to the Work and Wellbeing Podcast for more evidence-based workplace wellbeing insights.

Michael Fitzgibbon is Health and Wellbeing Manager for Balfour Beatty Power Transmission & Distribution in Scotland. He brings a unique perspective combining 10 years of military service in 2,9 Commando with 13 years in the construction industry, having worked as an overhead linesman before transitioning into safety and wellbeing leadership.

KEY INSIGHTS: 

[02:30] Military training's 4 wellbeing pillars: physical exercise, movement, outdoor time, and social connection 

[05:15] Creative wellbeing solutions for remote construction sites across Scotland 

[08:45] Wellbeing onboarding alongside traditional safety training 

[12:20] "Campfire conversations" vs formal mental health discussions 

[15:10] Leadership buy-in and its catalytic effect on organisation-wide change 

[18:30] Finding meaning and purpose through structured reflection and feedback 

[21:45] The importance of embedding reflection time into daily work processes 

[24:15] How regular check-ins and career development conversations build resilience 

[27:00] Use your environment creatively,  remote locations become team building opportunities

Michael's approach proves that effective workplace wellbeing isn't about expensive programmes - it's about understanding human needs for purpose, connection, and recognition, then creating systematic approaches to meet those needs.

Connect with Eileen 

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: @eileendonnelly 

Instagram: @rippleandcouk

YouTube: https://bit.ly/4kvXNta

Subscribe to the Work and Wellbeing Podcast for more evidence-based workplace wellbeing insights.

Hello, and welcome to the Work and Wellbeing Podcast. I'm Eileen Donnelly, and I'm passionate about creating healthier, more supportive workplaces where people can thrive.

With 20 years of experience in workplace wellbeing, I've seen firsthand how the right wellbeing strategies can transform organisations, and how the wrong approaches can waste valuable resources whilst leaving employees no better off.

Two Formats, One Mission

Main Show Episodes: In-depth conversations with the most innovative practitioners in the wellbeing sector. These people are implementing groundbreaking programmes across diverse industries, from construction sites to corporate boardrooms. They share not just their successes, but also their challenges and failures, giving you honest insights into what truly makes a difference.

What makes these conversations unique is how we bridge the gap between practice and evidence. Our guests don't just share what they've done - they reflect on how their experiences align with or challenge the latest research, creating a richer understanding of wellbeing that's both practical and scientifically sound.

The Research Says (Fortnightly): We dive deep into the most compelling new studies and academic findings in workplace wellbeing, translating complex research into clear, actionable insights that you can apply in your organisation immediately.

Join Our Journey

Whether you're a leader looking to build a more resilient workforce, an HR professional designing wellbeing programmes, or simply someone who cares about creating healthier work environments, you'll find valuable takeaways in every episode.

If you find value in what you hear, please like, subscribe, and share with colleagues who might also benefit. I'd love to hear from you directly at [email protected].