Workplaces that Work

By Deanne Gagnon

Introducing Workplaces that Work, a podcast that talks about how putting people first makes teams that last! On this show I will cover all things workplace culture and how to help your team thrive. Th... more

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FAQs about Workplaces that Work:

How many episodes does Workplaces that Work have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.

Workplaces that Work episodes:

January 25, 2024EPISODE 14: Silos are for Farmers, not Workplaces
Today's episode tackles the sneaky problem of workplace silos. Discover why these barriers between departments can mess things up and how you can bring your team together for a smoother, happier workplace.
Key Takeaways
Silos Spell Trouble: Silos in the workplace lead to headaches everywhere - from customer service to healthcare. They cause frustration and mess with efficiency.

Empathy Opens Doors: Understanding your teammates' challenges can change the game. It's all about empathy leading to better teamwork.

Job Swap Day: Imagine swapping jobs with someone from a different department for a day. It's a cool way to see things from another perspective and knock down those silo walls.

Bosses Need to Step Up: A big part of beating silos is on the leaders. They've got to push for teams to mix it up and work together.

Fun Factor: Breaking silos isn't just good for work; it makes the job more fun and interesting. Learning about what others do can be pretty cool.
Get ready to say goodbye to the "that's not my job" attitude and hello to a more connected, fun, and efficient workplace! 🌟
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
20min
January 11, 2024 EPISODE 13: My Key Takeaways from 2023
Happy New Year! I have been doing some reflection, and today I am breaking down my big lessons from 2023 about teamwork and leadership.
Key takeaways from My Key Takeaways:
Teamwork is About Feeling Valued: No matter the industry, teams thrive when each member feels genuinely appreciated.
Leaders Need Time Off Too: Setting an example in work-life balance isn't just good for you; it shows your team it's okay to recharge.
Team Building is About Connections, Not Just Activities: Genuine chats and shared experiences are the foundations of strong team bonds.
Adapt Your Leadership to Fit the Room: Recognize that everyone's learning style is different, and flex your approach to match.
These lessons from 2023 are all about keeping it real – value your people, take care of yourself, connect genuinely, and lead flexibly. Keep these simple truths in mind as you navigate your work life this year.

Cheers to a great year ahead! 🌟
Resources mentioned:
The Confident Leader workshop
Emily Shandruk Solutions
⁠The Emotional Culture Deck⁠
Episode 12: Why It’s Important to Reflect with Your Team
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
24min
December 21, 2023EPISODE 12: Why it's Important to Reflect with Your Team
Welcome to my final episode of 2023! Today, I’m going to explore the power of reflection within teams, and why it's so crucial as we bid farewell to this year. I'm excited to introduce you to my simple yet impactful 'Three A Framework' for year-end reflections:
Ask: We'll discuss how to engage your team in a reflective journey. It's all about asking the right questions to uncover the highs and lows of the past year. This step is about fostering a space for open dialogue and shared experiences, leading to deeper insights.

Acknowledge: Next, we'll talk about the importance of acknowledging your team's efforts and the insights gained from the reflection process. This isn't just about saying 'thank you'; it's about truly valuing the contributions and learnings of every team member, enhancing the team's morale and cohesiveness.

Act: Finally, we'll focus on turning those reflections into actionable steps. It's one thing to listen and another to act. I'll share strategies on how to effectively use the insights gathered to plan for a more successful and proactive year ahead.
In today's episode, we'll dive into each of these aspects to help you and your team make the most of this reflective exercise. Join me as we unlock the potential of reflection to foster growth, unity, and a clearer vision for the future.

Resources mentioned:
The Art of Focused Conversation by R. Brian Stanfield
ICA Associates Inc.

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
11min
December 14, 2023EPISODE 11: Take Your Team to the Next Level - The Impact of Strengths with Trudy Bateman
Today, I am thrilled to have Trudy Bateman, the insightful Director of Strengths Profile, joining me. Get ready to dive into the world of strengths!
🔑 Key Insights from Today's Episode:
Celebrating Individuality with 60 Strengths: Trudy sheds light on how Strengths Profile's unique approach, featuring 60 different strengths, helps each of us celebrate our uniqueness and gain a deeper understanding of who we are.

Balancing Realized and Unrealized Strengths: We explore the importance of understanding not just our strengths but also our weaknesses, and how we can use our strengths to compensate effectively.

Energizing vs. Draining Tasks: Learn how to distinguish between tasks that energize you and those that don't, and how this understanding can transform your professional life.

Leadership and Strengths: Trudy discusses the impact of the strengths approach on leadership, emphasizing the role of self-awareness and being a role model in becoming a more effective leader.

Evolving Profiles: Our strengths and weaknesses aren't set in stone. We delve into how our profiles can change over time and how we can intentionally improve.

Team Dynamics and Strength Diversity: Discover how understanding the unique strengths profiles of team members can lead to stronger, more balanced teams and better overall performance.
🌟 Today's Takeaway:
Remember, it's all about using our strengths in ways that energize us and help us, and those around us, to flourish. This approach isn't just about individual growth, but about creating a supportive, dynamic team environment where everyone has a chance to shine.
📚 Resources Mentioned:
Strengths Profile by Cappfinity
Follow Trudy on Linkedin for more insights into leveraging your strengths!
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
26min
December 07, 2023 Episode 10: Why Every Workplace Needs a Buddy the Elf
Welcome to the latest episode of "Workplaces That Work"! Today, I'm diving into a festive and fun topic: Why every workplace needs a Buddy the Elf. That's right, we're talking about the character from one of my all time favourite Christmas movies "Elf" and how his qualities can positively transform our work environments. So, grab your favourite holiday drink, and let's get to the show! 🎄🎙🤩
Key Takeaways:
The Power of Positivity: Did you know that a positive work environment can lead to a 12% spike in productivity? We're exploring how Buddy the Elf's infectious enthusiasm and optimism can create a ripple effect in workplace morale.
Inclusivity and Open-mindedness: Buddy’s acceptance of everyone he meets teaches us a valuable lesson in inclusivity and open-mindedness. We'll discuss the ripple effect of being non-judgemental.
Creative Problem-Solving: Remember when Buddy transformed a department store into a winter wonderland overnight? His creativity isn't just for show; it's a vital skill in today's dynamic work world. Let's talk about how thinking outside the box can lead to breakthrough solutions.
Celebrating Small Wins: Buddy never misses a chance to celebrate, even the smallest achievements - like the World’s Best Cup of Coffee! We’ll delve into why acknowledging the small wins is crucial for sustained team motivation and engagement.
The Magic of Kindness and Empathy: Finally, we'll touch on how Buddy's unwavering kindness and empathy can teach us to build stronger, more supportive relationships at work.
Remember, it’s not just about decking the halls; it's about creating a work environment where joy, creativity, and inclusivity thrive. Thanks for tuning in today, and don't forget to hit that subscribe button for more insights into making our workplaces happier and more productive!

Resources mentioned
Elf
Hallmark Christmas movies
Workplaces that Work: Episode 1: Being Intentional About your Workplace Culture is Necessary. Here’s Why.
Workplaces that Work: Episode 9: From the C-Suite to the Front Line: Bridging the Gap with Prina Shah

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
16min
November 30, 2023EPISODE 9: From the C-Suite to the Front Line: Bridging the Gap with Prina Shah
I am so excited to welcome Prina Shah to the show today! We cover a lot of ground today including the art of connecting the executives with their teams. It's all about having genuine conversations, and remembering that at the end of the day, we're all just people trying to do our best at work.
Top 5 Takeaways
Learning Together is Key: Big bosses need a refresher sometimes on what it means to be part of the team. It's about looking at things from every angle - me, we, and us.

Coffee Chats for the Win: Picture this: grabbing a coffee with your CEO and just chatting. Sounds cool, right? These informal meetups can make your boss seem more like a teammate than just the person in the big office.

Being Real Matters: Nobody's perfect, and that's okay. Leaders who show their human side, who share their ups and downs, create an atmosphere where everyone feels more connected and supported.

One Size Doesn't Fit All: Workplaces keep changing, and so should the way bosses lead. It's about tuning in to what each person needs and being flexible – kind of like how parents adapt to their kids.

Trust and Teamwork: Imagine a place where everyone's ideas matter, no matter their title. That's what happens when trust is the name of the game. It's about breaking down those old-school hierarchies and building a team where everyone feels like they belong.
If you take just one thing away today, remember the “We, Me & Us” concept! Tune in for some fresh perspectives on making your workplace a place where everyone, from interns to CEOs, feels like they're part of something great. 🌟
Resources mentioned
If by Rudyard Kipling
The Emperor's New Clothes by Hans Christian Andersen
Ways to Change the Workpkace podcast
https://www.prinashah.com/
Follow Prina on Instagram
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠LinkedIn⁠
⁠Instagram⁠
⁠Facebook⁠
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠Let’s chat⁠.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
51min
November 23, 2023EPISODE 8: Boosting Workplace Engagement: Why It Matters & How to Do It
Welcome to the latest episode! Today, I’m getting into why awareness, adaptability, and communication really matter at work. I’m sharing eye-opening stats from Gallup's 2023 report on global workplace engagement and what they mean for your team. Now, let’s get to the show!
Key Takeaways:
A Look at the Big Picture:
Did you know only about 23% of workers worldwide really feel connected to their jobs? We'll talk about why this matters.

Being Aware: It's a Game Changer:
Let's chat about why knowing how you're showing up each day, and understanding how your team’s doing, can really make a difference. It’s all about creating a vibe where everyone feels seen and heard.
Adaptability: Your Superpower in Disguise:
Change is the only constant, right? I'll share some thoughts on why being flexible and open to new ways of doing things is a game changer, especially with everything we've learned from the pandemic.

Communication: The Heart of a Happy Team:
We’re going to explore why clear and honest chats at work can transform the way we work together. It's not just about passing information; it's about building connections.

Self-Awareness in Leadership:
I touch on why it's so important for leaders to be in tune with themselves and their teams. It's about setting the stage for everyone to do their best work in a supportive environment.
Remember, this isn’t just about ticking boxes for better workplace engagement; it's about creating a space where we all can do our best, feel our best, and be our best. Thanks for joining me today, and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button for more chats on making our work lives better!
Resources mentioned:
Gallup State of the Global Workplace: 2023 Report
Emotional Culture Deck
Strengths Profile
Hidden Potential by Adam Grant
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
24min
November 16, 2023EPISODE 7: Retaining Millennials and Gen Z with Sharon Kovacic
Welcome back to our latest episode: "Retaining Millennials and Gen Z with Sharon Kovacic." Today I welcome Sharon, from YES Employment to dive into what makes the younger generations tick at work and how we can create environments where they not only stick around but thrive. So, grab your coffee, and let's get into it!
Key Takeaways:
Flexibility is Key:
We're talking about why a rigid 9-to-5 might be a thing of the past. Millennials and Gen Z are all about flexibility in their work schedules. How can we adapt to this change?

Work-Life Balance is a Priority:
Gone are the days when work was everything. We discuss how the new generations value their time outside of work just as much as their time on the clock.

Measuring Productivity Beyond the Office:
We're tackling the big question: How do you measure productivity when work isn't done onsite? Spoiler alert: It's all about focusing on tasks rather than watching the clock.

Gen Z: Not Entitled, Just Balanced:
Let's bust some myths! Gen Z isn't entitled; they just put equal value on life outside of work. We'll explore how understanding this mindset is crucial for retention.

Security with a Twist:
Security in the job is important, but not at any cost. Learn how the younger workforce wants stability but not without conditions. What are these conditions? Tune in to find out!

Onboarding Matters:
First impressions count! We dive into how effective onboarding can engage new staff right from the start and set clear expectations.
Remember, understanding and adapting to the needs of Millennials and Gen Z isn't just about keeping them around; it's about fostering a workplace where everyone can do their best work. Thanks for tuning in, and don't forget to hit subscribe for more insights on navigating the ever-evolving workplace. Until next time, keep thriving!

Resources mentioned:
YES Employment Services
MacLeans Magazine - You’re Wrong aAbout Gen Z
CANNEXUS Conference Brainstorm Strategy Group Inc.

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
Facebook
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
32min
November 09, 2023EPISODE 6: Helping Hybrid Teams Stay Connected
Today I am tackling how to help keep hybrid teams connected. Whether you're a remote work rookie or a home office hero, these tips will transform your online work experience. Let's jump right in!
Key Takeaways:
Chat and Collaborate: Boost participation and comfort in virtual meetings by using chat functions, virtual whiteboards, and polling tools – it's a game changer for team interaction!

Co-Work and Connect: Organize co-work sessions and one-hour focused meetups online to strengthen team bonds and ramp up productivity.

Casual Vibes for Stronger Ties: Kick off meetings with some music to create a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, a weekly check-in with fun incentives?
Play and Lead Together: Mix things up with virtual games and activities to build team spirit. And why not rotate meeting leadership and organize team-building activities? Sharing skills in virtual workshops can be super fun too.
Talk, Participate, Improve: Understand each other's remote work challenges and brainstorm together. Remember, clear communication and active participation are key to feeling connected. Don't forget to involve everyone in discussions for continuous improvement.
I hope you found these insights valuable in navigating the world of remote and hybrid work. Remember, the key to a successful virtual team lies in communication, collaboration, and a bit of fun. Keep these takeaways in mind to create a more connected and engaging work environment.
Resources mentioned:
⁠Episode 5: Winter Blues at Work: Navigating SAD in the workplace with Heather Witiluk ⁠
⁠⁠Autumnwood Counselling⁠⁠
⁠Slido ⁠& ⁠Mentimeter⁠ - Virtual Polling tools
⁠The Emotional Culture Deck⁠
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.
Find me on the socials:
⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠
⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠
⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠
⁠⁠Pinterest⁠⁠
Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
21min
November 02, 2023 EPISODE 5: Winter Blues at Work: Navigating SAD in the Workplace with Heather Witiluk
Today, we're diving into the often-overlooked world of Winter Depression in our workplaces, and I've got the wonderful Heather Witiluk from Autumnwood Counselling to guide us.
Key Takeaways:
Cold Facts on Winter Depression: It's not just a passing winter gloom. It's a real, shadowy mood that settles during the colder months. Beyond the typical cravings for comfort food, we're talking about noticeable fatigue, brain fog, and those unpredictable sleep shifts that throw us off.
SAD’s Impact on our Daily Grind: SAD isn't just a personal battle. It casts a frosty layer over our productivity, team morale, and can even seep into our family dynamics. The ramifications are broader than you might think.
Warm Strategies for Winter Well-being: Knowledge is our first line of defence. By understanding SAD and creating flexible work vibes, we can combat the cold. Embracing natural sunlight and heeding Heather’s advice on counselling can be game-changers.
Leader’s Winter Survival Kit: Staying active and engaged isn't just a bonus; it's essential. With tools like therapy, connecting with nature, and genuine digital check-ins, you can lead with warmth even when the temperatures drop.
Grab your mug, folks, and let's brighten up these chilly months together! ❄️☕
Please keep in mind this is not a substitution for Therapy and is for general information only. If you need mental health support please visit www.autumnwoodcounselling.com.
Resources mentioned
Autumnwood Counselling
Follow autumnwoodcounselling on Instagram
I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at [email protected].

Find me on the socials:
LinkedIn
Instagram
Facebook
Pinterest

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with Deanne Gagnon Dynamics? Let’s chat.
If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.
Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!
...more
25min

FAQs about Workplaces that Work:

How many episodes does Workplaces that Work have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.