Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture, brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. Hosted by Leanne Elliott, Chartered Occupational Psychologist and business owner, Al Elliott, together they help you simplify the science of work. This week’s summer session is about something we don’t talk about enough: fun. Our guest, Joel Zeff — keynote speaker, improv performer, and workplace energy expert — believes that celebrating small wins with a simple “ta-da!” can transform how your team feels and performs. Forget forced fun and ping pong tables. Joel’s approach is about authentic energy, appreciation, and joy. 🔥 What We Cover 📌 Why fun matters at work Joel shares why fun isn’t a distraction, but the secret sauce for engagement, retention, and genuine performance. 📌 Dumb Ass Managers The managers who drain energy and destroy creativity — and how to avoid becoming one. 📌 The ‘Ta-Da’ philosophy How celebrating everyday wins can rebuild motivation, positivity, and connection. 📌 Appreciation as leadership Joel explains why recognising people is the simplest, most powerful tool managers have. 🎧 Want more from Joel Zeff? – Website: https://www.joelzeff.com/ – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelzeff/ - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thejoelzeff/ 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork – Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott – Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne – Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com – Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, we’re here to simplify the science of work. This week is a special crossover: our conversation with Jon White and Nick Korte, co-hosts of the brilliant Nerd Journey podcast. In this two-part series, we dig into what makes teams thrive (and fail), the skills most managers never get taught, and how to navigate careers in uncertain times. 👉 Listen to Part 1 on Nerd Journey here:https://nerd-journey.com/task-cohesion-managing-a-larger-team-in-a-flatter-organization-amidst-a-climate-of-uncertainty-with-al-and-leanne-elliott-1-2/ 👉 Listen to Part 2 on Nerd Journey here:https://nerd-journey.com/champion-your-people-role-clarity-for-the-ic-in-the-chaotic-world-of-work-with-al-and-leanne-elliott-2-2/ 🔥 What We Cover The hidden skills every great manager needs — and why most never get trained in them. How to navigate career pivots without losing confidence (even if it feels like you’re starting over). The difference between being a “boss” and being a leader who actually develops people. Why Jon and Nick believe the best career stories come from mistakes and detours, not perfect planning. The surprising lessons they’ve learned from 300+ interviews with tech professionals. 🎧 Want more from Jon & Nick? Nerd Journey Podcast: https://www.nerd-journey.com Connect with Jon White on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonwhite173/ Connect with Nick Korte on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickkorte/ 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Thursday deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🎙️ This Week's Guest: John Michel Associate Professor at Loyola University of Maryland, John discovered that awkward small talk doesn't just make people uncomfortable — it leads to emotional exhaustion, the precursor to burnout. His research reveals the dark side of workplace chatter that's hiding in plain sight. 💡 Key Takeaways from John Michel Surface-level is better. Until trust develops, keep workplace conversations professional. Personal topics can harm professional image. Forced fun backfires. Don't mandate Fun Fridays. Organic socializing builds stronger relationships than manufactured activities. Uncomfortable conversations isolate. Bad small talk makes people feel excluded, reducing their support network and increasing burnout risk. 🎧 Want more from John Michel? – Website: https://johnwmichel.wordpress.com/ – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-michel-33883a5/ 🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow, share, and leave us a review — and join us Tuesday for our summer session where we chat about the fun side of work. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork – Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott – Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne – Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com – Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

It’s week three of our Summer Sessions and in the same week AOL dial-up finally went quiet, we’re taking a trip down memory lane… with help from Reddit’s Ask Old People thread. Armed with gin, sunscreen, and questionable wisdom, we answer some of the internet’s best nostalgia questions — from “what’s a behaviour you no longer tolerate” to “how did we find out a song name before Shazam?” Plus, we unpack the workplace quirks, fashion crimes, and tech disasters that shaped our early careers. 🔥 What We Cover 📌 Back in our day… From office smoking rooms to fax machine rage, we share the work habits and cultural norms we’re glad to leave in the past. 📌 Career curveballs The ‘Plan B’ moments that turned out better than Plan A — and why it’s worth embracing the detours. 📌 Finding music before the internet Yes, it involved cassette tapes, patience, and sometimes a lot of guesswork. 📌 What really earns respect The small but meaningful actions that instantly win us over in colleagues and leaders. 📌 Stress that didn’t exist What younger generations worry about now that simply wasn’t on our radar growing up. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work – Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott – Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne – Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com – Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

This week’s guest is Carolina Lasso — a former Google and AmEx high-flyer who, on her 34th birthday, realised she had everything she'd ever worked for… and felt absolutely nothing. What followed was a six-month sabbatical, a solo trip around the world, and a radical redefinition of what it means to be successful. Let’s get into it. 🔑 Key Takeaways 📌 When achievement becomes identity Carolina opens up about using her accomplishments to feel loved, and how this deep-rooted drive masked real emotional needs — until her health and happiness collapsed. 📌 “I am busy” isn’t a flex She explains why constantly saying you're “too busy” might be a warning sign, not a badge of honour — and how to start replacing output obsession with genuine wellbeing. 📌 Flourishing isn’t about being happy all the time Forget peak performance. Carolina’s idea of success is being able to say, “I am well,” even when things aren’t perfect — and she shares how to get there. 📌 Your ego isn’t your enemy In a surprising twist, Carolina reframes the ego as a protective force. When it’s chasing achievement, it’s often trying to secure love and belonging. 🔗 Resources & Links Explore Carolina’s work:🌐 https://www.carolinalasso.com Follow her journey on Instagram:📸 https://www.instagram.com/carolinalasso_/ Connect on LinkedIn:💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinalasso 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: ⁠mind.org.uk/information-support – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email ⁠jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work – Al Elliott: ⁠linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott – Leanne Elliott: ⁠linkedin.com/in/meetleanne – Email: ⁠hello@truthliesandwork.com – Book a call: ⁠savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

This is Episode 2 of our Summer Sessions — and this week, we’re going global. After visiting nearly 50 countries together, we’re spilling the tea on where to go, where to avoid, and how to actually get work done without melting, buffering, or losing your mind. From long-stays in Southeast Asia to one-night stands in Northern Europe, we’re unpacking the joy and chaos of remote work around the world. Expect real talk, surprising tips, and at least one mosquito-related meltdown. 🔥 What We Cover 📌 Best countries for remote working Where Wi-Fi, weather, and work-life balance all hit that sweet spot (hint: not Bali). 📌 Holiday vs. Nomad: don’t get it twisted Why not every dreamy destination is cut out for your inbox. 📌 Places we’ll never return to (for work) Loud, cold, lonely or just plain awkward — the countries that didn’t make the cut. 📌 The unexpected winners Countries we didn’t expect to love as a base… but it totally surprised us. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork – Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott – Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne – Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com – Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

This week we’re breaking down the science behind switching off — and how to finally reclaim your holidays. From boundary-setting to return-to-work anxiety, clinical psychologist Dr. Elaine Smith shares what it really takes to disconnect (without guilt). 🔥 What We Cover 📌 Email addiction is realDr. Elaine explains why our brains are wired to check messages — even on holiday — and how to break that cycle with simple psychological strategies. 📌 Setting better boundaries at workFrom crystal-clear out-of-office messages to handling pushy colleagues, Elaine lays out exactly how to protect your time off without burning bridges. 📌 Toxic holiday culturesWe hear from a listener who was told to check emails daily while on leave — and got angry messages when they didn’t. Elaine breaks down what’s really happening in these workplaces and how to respond. 📌 The secret to a smooth returnWhy your return-to-work inbox shouldn’t ruin your last two days off — and Elaine’s practical plan for managing the emotional spike that comes with coming back. 🎧 Want more from Dr. Elaine Smith? Explore her work: www.drelainesmith.com Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-elaine-smith-creating-compassionate-workplaces/ Try her Holiday Headspace masterclass:https://www.drelainesmith.com/beat-annual-leave-anxiety Use code truthlieswork20 for 20% off (normally £39) 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork– Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott– Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne– Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com– Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

This week we’re diving into our biggest professional disasters — and the personal embarrassments we still think about in the shower. From losing £103k on a failed business to being demoted out of a dream job, these are the moments that shaped us. And the ones we usually keep quiet. Recorded poolside with a gin in hand, this is the first of our Summer Sessions — stripped-back, slightly tipsy, and very real. 🔥 What We Cover 📌 Leanne’s first big management flop The dream promotion that turned into a living panic — and what she learned about boundaries, leadership, and starting again after being publicly demoted. 📌 Al’s bankruptcy at 26 The booze delivery startup that collapsed under licensing laws — and the brutal lessons in risk, resilience, and recovering from £103k of debt. 📌 Public fails and poolside humiliation Leanne’s wedding faceplant in Thailand. Al’s Tesco meat counter catastrophe. We relive the awkward moments that taught us more than any win ever has. 📌 Why failure is worth sharing We talk honestly about panic attacks, identity crises, and the long tail of shame — and why we still believe in taking big swings. 🎧 Want more from Truth, Lies & Work? – Website: https://truthliesandwork.com – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork – Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott – Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne – Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com – Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

Andrew Palmer has spoken to the head executives form Stripe, Netflix, LinkedIN, Google, Toyota - and he's uncovered the counterintuitive leadership lessons from all of them! Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Thursday deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🎙️ This Week’s Guest: Andrew Palmer Bartleby columnist and senior editor at The Economist, Andrew is also the host of Boss Class — a podcast that goes behind the scenes with the leaders of some of the world’s most admired companies. From Toyota to Netflix, IKEA to Unilever, Andrew’s spent the last year asking one deceptively simple question: What makes a better boss? In this conversation, he shares the themes that kept coming up — and the surprising patterns that didn’t. 💡 Key Takeaways from Andrew Palmer Great bosses know when to shut up. The best leaders don’t try to win the room. They create the space for others to think — and listen before they speak. Trust is built slowly — and breaks fast. The CEOs who lead well focus less on controlling people and more on designing systems that earn trust every day. There’s no ‘one way’ to lead. From the founder of Patagonia to the CEO of Toyota, the styles vary wildly. But what they share is a clear sense of purpose — and an ability to reflect on their own behaviour. Being a boss means learning constantly. The best leaders aren’t finished products. They’re works in progress who stay curious, ask questions, and remain open to being wrong. 🔗 Find out more Andrew Palmer on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-palmer-a3012a3/⁠ Boss Class podcast: ⁠https://www.economist.com/audio/podcasts/boss-class⁠ 🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow, share, and leave us a review — and don’t forget to catch Tuesday’s episode for the latest workplace news, hot takes, and real listener dilemmas. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/⁠ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email ⁠jo@samaritans.org⁠ – Mental Health at Work: ⁠https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/⁠ 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne – LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work – Al Elliott: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott⁠ – Leanne Elliott: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne⁠ – Email: ⁠hello@truthliesandwork.com⁠ – Book a call: ⁠https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat⁠

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Tuesday news round-up, workplace surgery, and expert take — all in one. 🔥 This Week’s Stories 📌 1. The Intruder Paradox: Is imposter syndrome actually a workplace problem?New research says it’s not always your confidence that’s the issue — it’s your environment. We explore the study behind a new term: the intruder paradox — and what it means for inclusion at work. 📰 Source: https://asmepublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/medu.15741 🗞️ Commentary: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/matt-smeed-b6033922_intruder-paradox-activity-7346916286867681281-O3Kv 📖 Read more: https://medium.com/@truthlieswork/imposter-syndrome-isnt-your-fault-it-s-a-workplace-problem-c2e00fbe67df 📌 2. How to hire an A-player: Tough love or recruitment theatre?A viral hiring post lays out a bold approach: multi-hour interviews, deep reference checks, and a “hard truths first” philosophy. But does this really help you hire better — or just scare off the best people? Al and Leanne unpack the thinking behind this controversial method and explore what hiring top talent really takes. 📌 3. Return-to-office rules are harming wellbeing — even before they’re enforcedA new Hays poll finds that just the threat of stricter office policies is denting morale. We unpack the anticipatory anxiety building across the UK workforce. 🗣️ Featuring insight from SWAA’s December 2024 data and Hays UK research. 🔥 Hot Take: Should you talk openly about quitting? Guest: Becky Simms (CEO, Human First Collective) It’s the workplace conversation nobody wants to have — until it’s too late. Becky explains why talking about career moves before they happen could be the secret to better retention, stronger trust, and less awkward exits. 📬 Register your interest to support Aspiration Digital: https://forms.gle/qFSqSurv1soNF4sL8 📱 Follow Aspiration Digital on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aspirationdigital/ 📱 Follow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aspirationdigital 💬 Workplace Surgery This week, we’re joined by experts from The Curve Group to answer 3 complex HR dilemmas: ❓ “How do you handle a workplace complaint when one employee wants to make amends — and the other wants them gone?” 🎧 Response from: Catherine Coggins – Head of HR & Legal at The Curve Group ❓ “Are job boards still worth it for small businesses?” 🎧 Response from: Liam Reed – Head of Recruitment Operations at The Curve Group ❓ “How do bank holidays work for compressed hours?” 🎧 Response from: Catherine Coggins – Head of HR & Legal at The Curve Group 🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow, share, and leave us a review — and don’t forget to join us Thursday as we’re joined by Boss Class host and The Economist senior editor Andrew Palmer for a deep dive on leadership lessons from the world’s best-run companies. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being– Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org– Mental Health at Work: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/ 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne– LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work– Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott– Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne– Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com– Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Thursday deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🎙️ This Week’s Guest: Tim Lupinacci He runs a law firm with hundreds of employees across the U.S. — and he’s doing it by flipping traditional leadership on its head. Tim Lupinacci is the CEO and Chair of Baker Donelson, a 130-year-old U.S. law firm. But unlike the archetype of a power-hungry managing partner, Tim leads through vulnerability, service, and personal values. In this conversation, Tim shares how he’s built a culture of trust and transparency in a sector that’s famously high-pressure, high-burnout, and historically low on empathy. Expect real-world lessons on humility, motivation, and leading with impact in complex, change-resistant environments. 💡 Key Takeaways from Tim Lupinacci Service is power.Tim explains why true leadership means removing barriers — not issuing commands. Vulnerability builds trust.By showing up as a real human, Tim found his team became more loyal, engaged, and resilient. Law firms don’t have to be toxic.Culture change is possible — even in legacy-driven sectors — when leaders go first. 🔗 Connect with Tim LupinacciLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-lupinacci/ 🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to check out our Tuesday news round-up for the latest in people, culture, and the science of work. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne Truth, Lies & Work on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truth-lies-and-work/Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliottLeanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanneEmail: hello@truthliesandwork.comBook a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Tuesday news round-up, hot take, and workplace surgery — all in one. 🔥 This Week’s Stories 📌 1. Empathsplaining: Are today’s leaders all talk, no trust?From “I hear you” to “we care deeply,” modern leaders know how to sound empathetic — but are they actually avoiding hard conversations? Leanne explores a growing trend of emotional performance without action — and why Gen Z isn’t buying it. 📰 Source: Jeff LeBlanc – https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jeff-leblanc-93212510a_leadership-workplace-management-activity-7347583849054302208-Fzy0 📌 2. Silicon Valley’s million-dollar scammerOne engineer, 22 startups, $1 million a year — and barely any work. Al breaks down the most outrageous employment heist in recent tech history, what it tells us about the future of remote work, and the ethical chaos of overemployment. 📰 Source: The Pragmatic Engineer – https://newsletter.pragmaticengineer.com/p/the-10x-overlemployed-engineer 📌 3. What really happens when leaders break their word?A new study reveals that it’s not the gap between values and actions that kills trust — it’s how leaders explain that gap. Leanne digs into the psychology behind word–action misalignment, and why high-integrity leaders are judged more gently. 📰 Study: https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdfdirect/10.1111/joop.70030 📰 Medium write-up: https://medium.com/@truthlieswork/when-leaders-break-promises-this-is-what-saves-trust-198a94a6220b 🔥 Hot Take: Let’s Talk About Pay, with Rameez Kaleem Why are companies still scared of pay transparency — and what’s that fear really costing them? Rameez Kaleem, founder of 3R Strategy, says pay isn’t just a finance issue — it’s a culture issue. He explains why younger workers are demanding honesty, how pay secrecy fuels inequality, and how transparency builds trust even without revealing everyone’s salary. 🗣 Guest links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rameezkaleem/ https://3r-strategy.com/ https://podcasts.apple.com/sa/podcast/a-case-of-the-mondays/id1691526371 💬 Workplace Surgery ❓ Should I hire my spouse into my small team?A listener wonders if working with their partner will strengthen trust — or spark chaos. ❓ How far should employers go to protect wellbeing?What’s realistic when you want to care for your team — but you’re also trying to survive as a small business? ❓ Can DISC fix team tensions — or is it just a fad?With personality clashes brewing, one leader asks whether DISC assessments can help — and what other tools might work better. 🎧 Enjoying the show?Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to join us Thursday for an expert masterclass on how to manage people who are way smarter than you. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne Truth, Lies & Work on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truth-lies-and-work/ Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Thursday deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🎙️ This Week’s Guest: Steve Roest What do you do when you’re leading people who are smarter than you? This week, we’re joined by Steve Roest, CEO and co-founder of PocDoc — one of the UK’s fastest-growing health tech startups. Steve leads a team of scientists and engineers developing cutting-edge diagnostics — despite not being a scientist or an engineer himself. In this episode, Steve shares how he turns that so-called “weakness” into a leadership superpower. You’ll hear how he builds high-performance teams, handles ego, and keeps world-class experts aligned without stifling innovation. 💡 Key Takeaways from Steve Roest You don’t need to be the smartest person in the room.Steve explains how leaders can succeed by focusing on vision, coordination, and culture — not technical control. Confidence isn’t the same as competence.Hiring for collaboration skills is just as important as technical ability. Steve shares how PocDoc screens for ego and team fit. Brilliance needs boundaries.The best ideas often come from freedom — but only when that freedom is shaped by clear goals and customer needs. 🔗 Resources & Links Website: https://pocdoc.co/Steve Roest on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveroest/Steve’s podcast – The Health Tech Hour: https://open.spotify.com/show/5pZb65BCLauYxbJrbzDQfP 🎧 Enjoying the show?Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to check out our Tuesday news round-up for the latest in people, culture, and the science of work. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-beingMind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & LeanneTruth, Lies & Work on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truth-lies-and-work/Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliottLeanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanneEmail: hello@truthliesandwork.comBook a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Tuesday news round-up, workplace surgery, and expert take — all in one. 🔥 Stories Covered 📌 1. BrewDog says it’s all about wellbeing nowAfter years of scandal and staff walkouts, BrewDog is trying to clean up its act — training 200 mental health first aiders and rolling out a new leadership charter. But are we buying it? And what does real culture change actually look like? 📰 Source: https://www.thetimes.com/uk/scotland/article/brewdog-leaves-punk-era-behind-to-focus-on-staff-wellbeing-d03xht2rx 📌 2. NatWest starts thinking like a tech companyFrom giving back nearly half a million staff hours to killing off bad ideas fast, NatWest’s COO is leading a culture shift inside one of the UK’s biggest banks. Is this the future of large-scale transformation? 📰 Source: https://www.strategy-business.com/article/The-new-way-NatWest-Group-is-making-work-better 📌 3. Stuck employees act out — and here’s the science behind itNew research finds that career plateaus don’t just hurt motivation — they drain people’s mental energy and make them more likely to break rules, disengage, or behave badly. Not because they’re unprofessional… but because they’re burned out and stuck. 📄 Study: Zhao, Chen & Xie (2025), Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology 🔗 https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/joop.12532 🔗 Follow-up: ⁠https://medium.com/@truthlieswork/stuck-in-a-dead-end-job-youre-more-likely-to-lash-out-2de4f22ccdca 🔥 Hot Take: Matt Smeed on Why Wellbeing Leaders Are Held to Impossible Standards Matt Smeed — Business Psychologist and co-founder of the Working Well Community — joins us to ask a simple question: why do wellbeing leaders have to be perfect? Other departments are allowed to try, fail and iterate. But when it comes to wellbeing, the bar’s sky-high. Matt argues it’s time to ditch the perfectionism and make space for progress. More from Matt Smeed:🌐 Website: www.workingwell.community🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-smeed-b6033922/ 👨‍💼 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@workingwellcommunity 💬 Workplace Surgery ❓ Do investors care about culture — and how do you prove it?A founder gearing up for their first funding round wants to show off their strong team culture. But will investors actually value it — and how do you make it measurable? ❓ Should I tell my boss I’m burnt out — or just push through?They’ve been the fixer, the firefighter, the one who holds it all together. Now they’re running on empty. But will honesty help… or backfire? ❓ I’ve been asked to gather peer feedback — but no one wants to talk to meTheir boss wants them to be the “culture go-between.” They feel awkward, underqualified, and unsure how to do it. Is it OK to push back? 🎧 Enjoying the show?Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to join us Thursday for a masterclass in managing people who are smarter than you (yes, really). 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne LinkedIn (Show): https://www.linkedin.com/company/truth-lies-and-work/Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliottLeanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanneEmail: hello@truthliesandwork.comBook a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Thursday deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🎙️ This Week’s Guest: Richard Birke Mediator. Negotiator. Law professor. Neuroscience nerd. This week we’re joined by Richard Birke, Chief Architect of JAMS Pathways — the premier training and development platform for alternative dispute resolution. He’s helped settle billion-dollar legal cases, trained thousands of leaders, and worked with organisations like NASA, NBC and the UN — teaching them how to resolve high-stakes conflict before it becomes a disaster. And in this episode, he shares how the best managers use mediation skills to build trust, reduce drama, and protect culture — even if they never set foot in a courtroom. 💡 Key Takeaways from Richard Birke Conflict is inevitable. Combat is optional.Great managers don’t avoid conflict — they navigate it. Richard breaks down the difference between productive disagreement and destructive drama. Most problems at work aren’t legal — they’re relational.Before HR policies or employment law get involved, there’s often a moment where a manager could step in and defuse the tension. Richard explains what that looks like in practice. Listening is more than hearing.The number one skill in any conflict isn’t talking — it’s listening for what’s not being said. Richard shares how to tune in and de-escalate before things go nuclear. 🔗 Resources & Links Richard Birke – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-birke-3840741/ JAMS Pathways: https://www.jamsadr.com/what-we-do/pathways 🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to check out our Tuesday news round-up for all the latest in people and culture. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.orgMental Health at Work: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne LinkedIn (Show): https://www.linkedin.com/company/truth-lies-and-work/Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliottLeanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanneEmail: hello@truthliesandwork.comBook a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat podscan_ao9sFwM7ULyvbNzEQYPwzNJ4sznDEF64

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Tuesday news round-up, workplace surgery, and expert take — all in one. 🔥 This Week’s Stories 📌 1. Monster Jobs Goes Bust — But What Killed It? The original online job board, Monster Worldwide, has filed for bankruptcy. It’s not just the end of a tech giant — it’s a wake-up call for every recruiter and platform still relying on “post and pray” job ads. 📰 Fast Company article: ⁠https://www.fastcompany.com/91357558/careerbuilder-monster-chapter-11-bankruptcy-filing-online-job-search-board-sinks-after-pandemic⁠ 📌 2. Great Bosses Exist — And Here’s the Proof After our episode on terrible managers, listeners demanded a follow-up: what about the good ones? Leanne shares highlights from Laura Lanier’s latest viral post — and the incredible bosses who’ve shaped careers, saved lives, and redefined leadership. 📰 Laura Lanier’s LinkedIn post: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/posts/laura-lanier-819b04217_okay-so-270-of-us-had-crazy-boss-stories-activity-7340799206099439616--dT9⁠ 📌 3. The Emotion Hack That Actually Works at Work New research says you don’t need therapy, apps or breathing exercises to regulate emotions. Just two small cognitive shifts helped people feel calmer and work better — with results lasting over a month. 📰 Read the full explainer: ⁠https://medium.com/@truthlieswork/the-emotion-hack-that-actually-works-at-work-194005888551⁠ 🔥 Hot Take: “The Gender Pay Gap Doesn’t Exist (Until Age 30)” — with Antonio Ribeiro Meet the founder of Yurtle, Antonio Ribeiro — who claims the gender pay gap vanishes until women start having children. From unpaid care to sandwich generation burnout, Antonio shares how his tech company is predicting — and preventing — the disappearances that cost businesses their best people. 👤 Antonio RibeiroCEO & Founder, YurtleEmail: ⁠antonio@yurtle.co.uk⁠Website: ⁠https://www.yurtle.co.uk⁠LinkedIn (Antonio): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonio-ribeiro-97919980/⁠LinkedIn (Company): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/yurtle⁠ 💬 Workplace Surgery ❓ How do you thank an employee who’s basically family? After taking over the family business, a listener wants to celebrate a loyal employee’s 10-year anniversary — without making it awkward. ❓ What should I watch out for when hiring remotely for the first time? Hiring your first remote employee? From time zones to trust signals, Leanne shares what psychology says about virtual hiring that works. ❓ How do I keep morale up when everything feels uncertain? When hope feels tone-deaf and honesty feels bleak, how do you lead well? Al and Leanne tackle the fine art of empathetic optimism in hard times. 🎧 Enjoying the show? Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to join us Thursday for another deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/⁠Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email ⁠jo@samaritans.org⁠Mental Health at Work: ⁠https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk⁠ 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne LinkedIn (Show): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/truth-lies-and-work/⁠LinkedIn (Al): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott⁠LinkedIn (Leanne): ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne⁠Email: ⁠hello@truthliesandwork.com⁠Book a call: ⁠https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat⁠

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast from the HubSpot Podcast Network — hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott. This week, we're stepping off the corporate stage and into the orchestra pit — to explore what business leaders can learn from the world of classical music. Our guest is Roit Feldenkreis, international orchestra conductor and CEO of BHZ Group, who’s spent years translating the unspoken power of presence, body language and tempo into boardroom leadership. In this episode, Roit shares how conducting teams — musical or managerial — starts with how you show up. This is a conversation about non-verbal leadership, team dynamics, and what it really means to trust the people around you — especially when you’re not the one holding the mic. 💡 Key Takeaways from Roit Feldenkreis Conducting isn’t about control: A great leader doesn’t dictate — they guide, listen, and adjust in real time. Presence speaks louder than PowerPoint: Your posture, gestures and eye contact can shape trust before a word is said. Great teams don’t need micromanaging: Clarity, tempo, and space to perform are more effective than rigid oversight. Leadership is performance — but not inauthentic: How you show up matters. Preparation and presence turn trust into action. Silence can lead: Sometimes it’s the pause, not the speech, that gives others permission to shine. 🔗 Connect with Roit Feldenkreis Email: ⁠roit@bhz-group.com⁠ Website: ⁠www.bhz-group.com⁠ Personal: ⁠www.roitfeldenkreis.com⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/roit-feldenkreis/⁠ Instagram: @roitfeldenkreis YouTube: Roit Feldenkreis - Orchestra Conductor 💬 Connect with Al & Leanne LinkedIn: ⁠Truth, Lies & Work⁠ Al Elliott: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott⁠ Leanne Elliott: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne⁠ Email: ⁠hello@truthliesandwork.com⁠ Book a call: ⁠https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat⁠ 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being Mind UK: ⁠https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/⁠ Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email ⁠jo@samaritans.org⁠ Mental Health at Work: ⁠https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who leads — or wants to.

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning podcast where behavioural science meets workplace culture — brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Tuesday news round-up, workplace surgery, and expert take — all in one. 🔥 This Week’s Stories 📌 1. Locking In: Hustle Culture Gets a Makeover A new TikTok trend called “locking in” is taking over Gen Z — and it’s not just about being productive. It’s about reclaiming power in a chaotic world. But behind the discipline? Burnout, financial fragility, and disengagement risks. 📰 Read more: Refinery29 – The Soft Life is Over — This Summer We're “Locking In” 👩‍🏫 Featuring commentary from behavioural economist Samantha Rosenberg and psychologist Dr Audrey Tang. 📌 2. Steve Jobs and the Case for Creative Rule-Breaking Forget climbing the corporate ladder quietly. Jobs says: be a pirate. Al explores three “rules” creative minds should break — and why rigid systems might be killing your team's best ideas. 📰 Source: MyInnerCreative – 5 Rules Creative People Break (Inspired by Steve Jobs) 📌 3. Perfectionism and Burnout in Tech New research from Amity University explores how perfectionism is fuelling burnout in top tech firms. The message? High quality can come at a high cost — and mental health policies alone aren’t cutting it. 📰 Study:https://ijip.in/articles/the-perfectionism/ 🔥 Hot Take: First Impressions Are Everything, with Al Elliott Why your terrible Zoom setup might be doing more damage than you think. Al breaks down the three essentials (video, audio, background) — and why looking like you care is more important than looking perfect. 💬 Workplace Surgery ❓ “Where’s a great place to work remotely and feel inspired again?”A listener is craving nature, adventure, and a productivity boost. Al and Leanne share personal insights and practical ideas — from budget-friendly European hubs to lifestyle-friendly Asian stops. ❓ “Do I have to fake it to get promoted?”When quiet, calm leadership is overlooked, is the only option to become louder? Leanne unpacks what the science says about introverted leadership and how to be seen without pretending. ❓ “What does purpose-driven leadership really look like in practice?”Deadlines, politics, pressure — where does purpose fit in? Al and Leanne reflect on the reality of values-based leadership in complex roles. 🎧 Enjoying the show?Follow, share, and leave us a review wherever you listen — and don’t forget to join us Thursday for another deep-dive with a workplace expert. 🧠 Support with Mental Health and Well-being– Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org– Mental Health at Work: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/ 📬 Connect with Al & Leanne– LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work– Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott– Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne– Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com– Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast from the HubSpot Podcast Network — hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott. This week, we’re taking on a big leadership myth: that kindness is weakness. Alongside guest Jeff LeBlanc — lecturer, Forbes-featured strategist, and creator of the Engaged Empathy Leadership Model — we unpack what kindness really means in a leadership context. Not just whether it works, but whether we’re defining it all wrong. From setting boundaries to building trust, Jeff shares real-world examples and practical strategies to make kindness a powerful leadership tool — not just a feel-good slogan. 💡 Key Takeaways from Jeff LeBlanc Kindness isn’t about being liked — it’s about being trusted. It’s structured, intentional, and deeply tied to fairness. Avoidance isn’t kindness. Real kindness involves honest feedback, even when it’s uncomfortable. Clarity, consistency and compassion are the backbone of kind leadership. Follow-through matters. Kindness without action breeds frustration. Kindness is a practice — not a personality trait. You don’t need to be warm or bubbly to be a kind leader. 🔗 Connect with Jeff LeBlanc LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jeff-leblanc-93212510a Website: www.jeffleblancdba.com 💬 Connect with Al & Leanne Truth, Lies & Work on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork Al Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott Leanne Elliott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat 🧠 Support With Mental Health and Well-being – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/ – Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org – Mental Health at Work: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/ 🎧 If you found this episode helpful, please follow, share, or leave a review. And don’t forget to subscribe for more practical insights from real leaders — every Tuesday and Thursday.

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast from the HubSpot Podcast Network. Hosted by Chartered Occupational Psychologist Leanne Elliott and business owner Al Elliott, this is your Tuesday roundup of workplace culture, behavioural science, and real-world leadership challenges. This week, we’re digging into: 🔥 Stories Covered 1. Cyber Incivility: The Passive-Aggressive Problem You’re Probably Ignoring Leanne breaks down a new study on “cyber incivility” — the eye-roll emojis, blunt messages, and stony silences that are quietly eroding trust and morale in remote teams. This isn’t obvious bullying; it’s subtle disrespect — and it’s making your team sad, not mad. 🧠 Emotional exhaustion, disengagement, even physical illness are on the rise.✅ Set clear digital norms, train for empathy, and create space to clear the air. 📚 Source: Ju, B., & Pak, S. (2025). Managing cyber incivility in digital workplaces: a systematic review and HR strategies. International Journal of Organizational Analysis. Shared via psychologist Nicole Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/nicolewilliamsorganisationalpsychology_workplaceculture-cyberincivility-digitalcommunication-activity-7338822372294029312-9QfV?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAPpxk8B1ivB8GiszIgdppDkaIkcd6hBmOo 2. Loud Living vs Quiet Quitting: A New Kind of Work-Life BalanceForget burnout and vague “busy” blocks. Al unpacks writer Alli Kushner’s concept of “loud living,” where employees embrace visible, unapologetic boundaries at work. 📉 With engagement at 21% (Gallup), radical honesty might be just what we need.📅 Say “school pickup” not “busy,” and expand your out-of-office beyond holidays.🔗 https://www.fastcompany.com/91341203/quiet-quitting-loud-living-work-boundaries 3. Pride Feels... Different This Year Leanne reflects on why Pride Month feels heavier in 2025. With major sponsors quietly pulling out and DEI under political pressure, it’s no wonder LGBTQ+ employees feel let down. 🏳️‍🌈 The message? You were only supported when it was easy.💡 Real leadership means showing up — even when it’s quiet, even when it’s hard.📰 Source: The Times 🔥 Hot Take Should Management Be a Regulated Profession?Leanne goes in on the idea that managers — like teachers or doctors — should be formally trained and licensed. – What skills should be mandatory?– Are great managers born or built?– And how do we support growing businesses without access to formal pipelines? 💬 Workplace Surgery “Why is it so hard to get back into routine after time off?”Leanne explains how different types of rest impact recovery — and why overloading your break might leave you worse off. “Why is hiring so brutal when you’re just starting out?”A new business owner asks why no one is showing up to interviews. We dig into reputation, expectations, and how to shift your early hiring strategy. “How do I manage someone who keeps pushing it?”A listener’s stuck between being too soft or too harsh with a difficult employee. We explore healthy boundaries, documentation, and what to do when your own boss avoids the issue. We’re joined by professor and author Jeff LeBlanc to answer the question: 🎧 Coming Up Thursday Is kindness at work a weakness?With thousands of hours researching the science behind kindness, Jeff shares what really happens when you lead with empathy — and whether nice people really do finish last. 💬 Connect With Us 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/truthlieswork🙋 Al: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisalelliott🧠 Leanne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne📧 Email: hello@truthliesandwork.com📅 Book a call: https://savvycal.com/meetleanne/chat 🧠 Mental Health Support – Mind UK: https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/– Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org– Mental Health at Work: https://www.mentalhealthatwork.org.uk/