Working Conversations

Episode 203: Finding Sweet Relief from Digital Clutter

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson welcomes Erika Connelly, founder of Sweet Relief Solutions, to tackle the issue of digital clutter that plagues many people – both at work and at home. Erika shares her expertise in organizing both digital and physical workspaces, offering transformative strategies to improve productivity and mental clarity. Discover how digital disarray affects your work life and mental health, and gain practical tips to manage and reduce clutter, including systematic email management and photo organization. Whether you’re overwhelmed by emails, apps, or notifications, this episode provides actionable steps to reclaim your digital space and peace of mind.

Find show notes at https://janelanderson.com/203

Episode 202: From Cubicles to Creative Spaces: The Office Revolution

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson explores the post-pandemic office revolution, highlighting how companies are redesigning workspaces to be dynamic, inspiring, and human-centric. She discusses the shift from traditional cubicles to flexible layouts, amenities, and tech-forward environments that enhance collaboration. Dr. Anderson shares insights from her experiences at grand opening events of newly designed workspaces, emphasizing the importance of connection, energy, culture, and support in the new office designs. This episode provides a comprehensive look at trends shaping the future of workspaces, offering listeners a glimpse into how thoughtful design fosters productivity, well-being, and community in a hybrid work world.

Find show notes at https://janelanderson.com/202

Episode 201: Why Return to Office Mandates Will Fail

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson delves into the rising trend of return to office (RTO) mandates and their implications. She explores whether these policies are savvy cost-cutting measures or shortsighted tactics that erode trust. Highlighting examples from Amazon, Salesforce, Tesla, the United States Federal government and more, Dr. Anderson discusses both positive and negative impacts of RTO mandates. She also speculates on the future of work, predicting that strict RTO mandates may fail unless companies embrace hybrid models. If you’re navigating the complexities of modern workplace policies, this episode provides crucial insights into balancing organizational needs with employee well-being.

Find show notes at https://janelanderson.com/201

Episode 200: A Personal Manifesto: Dr. Anderson’s Three-Part Life Philosophy Revealed

In this milestone 200th episode, Dr. Janel Anderson delves into her personal manifesto for a meaningful life and fulfilling work. She introduces her guiding philosophy: know yourself, find meaningful work, and share it with others. Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Anderson highlights the significance of self-awareness, balanced work-life integration, and the power of community. Whether it's aligning your career with your core values or finding fulfillment in passion projects, this episode offers deeply personal insights and actionable steps for living a purpose-driven life. Tune in for inspiration as you navigate your own journey towards meaningful work, authentic connections and a life well-lived.

Find show notes at https://janelanderson.com/200

Episode 199: Boundary Setting for Better Work-Life Balance

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson dives into the importance of setting boundaries in order to maintain balance and personal integrity. This is especially true in a remote or hybrid work environment. She discusses why boundaries matter, how they get blurred, and the impact on well-being when they're not maintained. Drawing from personal experiences, Dr. Anderson offers practical tips for identifying, setting, and reinforcing boundaries between work and home life. She emphasizes the significance of clear communication and the benefits of physical separation between work and personal spaces to enhance productivity and satisfaction. Regardless of your work situation, this episode provides valuable insights for improving work-life balance and personal well-being.

Find show notes and transcript at https://janelanderson.com/199

Episode 198: Key Skills for the 2025 Workplace

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson discusses the nine essential skills needed for thriving in the 2025 workplace. From mastering AI literacy and digital collaboration to developing empathy and future-focused decision-making, she provides research-backed strategies for both employees and leaders. Dr. Anderson categorizes these skills into three key buckets: skills for employees, for leaders, and for everyone. Regardless of your role, the insights shared in this episode offer actionable steps to future-proof your career. Whether you're navigating hybrid work environments or aiming to lead with emotional intelligence, you'll find valuable guidance to stay relevant and resilient.

Find show notes and transcript at https://janelanderson.com/198

Episode 197: 2025 Workplace Predictions

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson dives into her top three predictions for the workplace in 2025. She discusses how hybrid work is set to finally normalize, generative AI becomes a mainstream staple of work, and a new focus emerges on bringing humanity back into the workplace. Reflecting on last year's predictions, she provides insights into how the workplace landscape continues to evolve. Whether you're navigating hybrid environments, adapting to AI advancements, or fostering human connections, this episode delivers valuable forecasts and strategies. Tune in for a deep exploration of trends that will shape your professional world in 2025.

Find show notes and transcript at https://janelanderson.com/197

Episode 196: Encore Episode: Do This Instead of New Year’s Resolutions

In this encore episode of Working Conversations, we revisit one of our most transformative topics: ditching New Year’s resolutions for something far more effective. Millions of resolutions fail within weeks, but Dr. Janel Anderson shares a proven alternative: Your Life: An Annual Inventory. This time-tested process helps you reflect on the past year, find closure, and set a meaningful foundation for the year ahead. For over 15 years, Dr. Anderson has used this ritual herself and taught it to her executive coaching clients. Tune in, carve out some “me time,” and set yourself up for an amazing year ahead!

Find show notes and transcript at https://janelanderson.com/196

Episode 195: Finding Your People: Why Community Matters in Work and Life

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson emphasizes the importance of finding your people for both personal well-being and professional success. Drawing from her transformative experience at a recent conference for Certified Speaking Professionals, she underscores the sense of validation, support, inspiration, and connection that comes from being with like-minded individuals. Dr. Anderson discusses the challenges and importance of building these meaningful relationships, particularly in a world of increasing digital isolation. She also ties these themes back to her keynote, "Reconnecting in a Disconnected World," offering practical steps to discover and connect with your community. Tune in to learn how finding your people can positively impact your life.

Find show notes at https://janelanderson.com/195

Episode 194: Tackling the Toxic 'Meeting After the Meeting'

In this episode, Dr. Janel Anderson delves into the toxic phenomenon of "the meeting after the meeting" at work. She defines it as a clandestine gathering where employees criticize the outcome of a previous meeting, thereby undermining trust and eroding workplace culture. Drawing from her experiences working with organizations, including a recent event with HR professionals, Dr. Anderson highlights the damaging effects of such behavior on trust, innovation, and employee engagement. She provides actionable strategies to combat this, emphasizing the importance of voicing dissent professionally. Whether you're a leader or team member, you'll find valuable advice for fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture.

Find show notes at https://janelanderson.com/194